Local crime plays a key role in shaping security-related perceptions, community awareness and the effectiveness of policing. The ability to access crime data on a neighborhood level unlocks an invaluable wealth of information that enables individuals to better prepare, respond and collaborate with law enforcement.
Regardless of where they get their news, nearly all Americans who follow local crime say it makes them at least somewhat worried about what’s happening in their community. But the degree to which this news makes people feel worried differs based on their age and racial and ethnic characteristics. For example, Black Americans are more likely to report seeing and hearing news about violent crime in their communities than are other racial and ethnic groups. They are also more likely to say this type of news makes them worried.
Most police agencies provide their residents with a variety of resources related to crime statistics and incidents. These online platforms often provide direct access to crime reports and updates on a citywide or neighborhood basis, as well as detailed breakdowns on specific types of crimes. They may also feature safety advice and instructional materials. Moreover, many sites also serve as official communication channels for law enforcement, connecting residents to their local officers and providing them with the opportunity to express concerns and questions.
A growing number of law enforcement agencies are incorporating crime mapping software into their websites, allowing citizens to search for events by location and view results on a map or in a data grid. They can even sign up for daily, weekly or monthly crime updates directly to their inbox.