Crime Analysis and Conventional Policing Strategies: Evidence from a Community in the Western Region, Ghana

Abstract

The study investigated the application of crime analysis at various police stations within the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality in the Western Region of Ghana with the objective of understanding crime, crime analysis, crime control and crime information management and their implications on conventional policing strategies. Qualitative and quantitative research adopting the questionnaire and interview were conducted with crime analysts and specialized investigators/intelligence analysts through descriptive and explorative research design. The study had a dual purpose of generating operational crime management information in assisting crime prevention initiatives as well as identifying the strengths and weaknesses of current practices for improving performance, mainly focusing on the criminal activities of group offenders (organized crime related), repeat offenders and serial offenders.