Full Spectrum Use of GIS by Law Enforcement: It's Not Just About Mapping Crime

This article examines the topic of crime mapping to enhance not only the traditional enforcement responsibilities, but also the three core components of community policing: problem-solving, partnerships, and organizational transformation. Discussed is how an increasing number of law enforcement agencies have benefited from crime mapping using GIS, and how the hardware, software, and personnel for mapping have become more powerful, affordable, accessible, and user friendly. Also examined is the demand for police services that are for non-criminal matters (approximately 70 percent). These non-crime-related services range from traffic control, to finding lost children or elderly residents suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, to enhanced surveillance for protecting critical infrastructure in a post 9/11 era. Figures and notes