The IACA Problem Solving Model

A problem is defined as recurring incidents that are similar in nature, cause harm or have the potential to cause harm, and that the public expects the police to fix. (The International Association of Crime Analysts [IACA]) Problem solving consists of a planning process which involves brainstorming and coming up with alternative ways to correct an undesirable situation. There are many processes, approaches, procedures, methods, tactics, strategies, policies, and technologies involved in problem solving. Problem solving can be used to evaluate crime and other problems, look into what the underlying causes may be, develop and implement solutions to the problems, and analyze the effectiveness of the solutions on the problems. (Ortmeier, P.J. & Meese III, E., 2010) Problem solving is used in many settings, with community oriented problem solving at the forefront. Communities join efforts with the local police agencies and work towards a solution to the problem or problems that their community is facing.

Along with this, there are a small number of victims which account for a large amount of victimization. One example stated that more than fifty percent of calls for service in some areas came from only ten percent of the locations. With police and community members teaming up and working together, the SARA problem solving model can help guide them to more effectively focus on the crime patters, locations, offenders, and underlying causes. (IACA) The SARA problem solving model has aided law enforcement in identifying crime patterns such as particular criminal activities, locations of criminal activities, and times that these activities take place. By identifying these patterns, the police are better able to use that information along with additional research to implement responses for each particular problem. (ACA,