Directed Patrol

The intent of the directed patrol method is to allocate patrols towards specific locations during particular times in order to target certain crimes. Directed patrol may be used to deter or catch criminals involved in such crimes as robbery, auto theft, or residential burglary. Additionally, directed patrol requires police departments spend less time on calls-for-service and more time focused on specific offenses in particular geographic areas in an effort to reduce crime for a given area. Directed patrol further emphasizes a strategic approach and analysis by officers in solving crimes versus time spent on standard patrol. Directive patrol is a proactive approach, with specific task and purpose based on analysis from historical criminal data for a given area Directed patrol as proven to be extremely effective in reducing specific levels of crime in various regions of the United States. In Kansas City for example, when directed patrol was utilized to reduce gun crime, a 65 percent reduction in gun seizures resulted. Finally, directive patrol applications when employed have taken a more community involvement and public relations approach than other patrol methods. This keeps residents informed of what law enforcement is doing in the community, and
The geographic/sector model came about out of a need to put an end to police corruption at the patrol officer level during the police reform era. However, many agencies use this model today, or variations of it due to the collaborative nature the model offers. In larger departments with more resources like the Kansas City PD, include leaders from the local communities, business owners, school representatives in effort to build collaborative partnerships with law enforcement, in order to prevent, solve, and address crime within given areas of these communities (Fritsch, Liederbach, & Taylor 2009, pg.92 &