Using Crime Maps and Crime Mapping Techniques in Crimology

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The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) stated in 2005, “Crimes are human phenomena; therefore, their distribution across the landscape is not geographically random ("What is crime-mapping," 2005).” The use of crime maps and crime mapping techniques within the study of criminology are hugely significant in identifying crime trends of the past and present as well as developing prevention methods for the future. For this paper, first crime mapping will be defined, then specifically looked at for an area which I have chosen, Douglas County, Nebraska. Finally, I will utilize the information found on the crime map data shared to either support or refute a criminological theory which has been discussed thus far in our Criminology class.
An Introduction to Crime Maps and Crime Mapping
What is a crime map? A crime map is created when analysts can pinpoint the locations of where criminal activity happens onto a map, usually of a city county or any other area under research. The information can be combined with other data, including social data such as neighborhood median incomes, and the locations of shopping centers, parks, schools, etc. ("Mapping and analysis," 2013). The maps can give insight into the underlying issues that open the door to criminal activity and can be helpful in planning crime prevention strategies.
According to the textbook, Criminology: The Core, crime mapping has been defined as a research technique that uses computerized crime maps and other graphical representations of crime data patterns (Siegel, 2010). These maps can range from very basic and simple, like thumb-tacks on a road map, to very complex maps which layer a variety of factors about the specific information about the nature of the crimes, lo...

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...wn and conclusions made about what kinds of crime to be watchful for in certain areas of cities, counties, or other locales. Of course, all crimes cannot be predicted or prevented, so it is not a guarantee that certain places are safer than others, however, it is helpful to know what parts of a place have heightened levels of criminal activity.

References
Douglas County Sheriff. (2013). Crimes and prevention. Retrieved from http://www.douglascounty-ne.gov/sheriff/crimes-and-prevention/crime-map Mapping and analysis for public safety. (2013, May 22). Retrieved from http://www.nij.gov/topics/technology/maps/Pages/welcome.aspx
Siegel, L. J. (2010). Criminology: the core. (4th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.
What is crime-mapping--briefing book. (2005, May 22). Retrieved from http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/html/cd_rom/tech_docs/pubs/WhatIsCrimeMappingBriefingBook.pdf

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