Cynthia Lum, Christopher S. Koper: Evidence-Based Policing: Translating Research into Practice

Abstract

Evidence-Based Policing: Translating Research into Practice is a valuable addition to the literature on developing and incorporating scientific knowledge in policing. Both authors are well qualified to produce this work, with considerable expertise and experience in this field. The book is logically presented, including an introduction to the subject and evidence-based approaches to policing, followed by a larger section on implementation. For me, it is this significant focus on translating research and its instrumental value to delivering effective and efficient policing that really sets this book apart from the competition. It is therefore a textbook with special value to those who provide these services, holding much of practical application for them. Part I is a solid introduction to the subject. The authors make it clear that they consider the use and impact of relevant knowledge to be a fundamental, essential element of evidence-based policing. This is a theme that continues throughout. The benefits of applied research and subsequent service improvement are clearly articulated. The hurdles experienced by the authors and colleagues are laid bare. There is just brief mention of research methods and readers will need to look elsewhere if this is what they seek. The theme of knowledge translation is introduced early, as is their principal translation tool, the Matrix. The book is very much based around this tool—which can take a little work to become accustomed with, but this is time well invested. Its capacity to identify 'realms of effectiveness' as well as to talk more specifically of policing approaches and individual projects makes it a uniquely profitable instrument. Part II describes the four broad evidence-based approaches that the Matrix has identified as effective at reducing crime. Much of this is around place-focussed strategies, either at the micro (street segment) or neighbourhood/county level. The reader is taken through the wealth of evidence now available to show that a geograph-Camb J Evid Based Polic