| Abstract: | This paper examines the effectiveness of proactive police patrolling as it pertains to crime reduction. While conventional squad car patrolling can be seen as proactive, it is generally a reactive form of police behavior. Foot patrols, due in part, to closer interaction with citizens, and closer proximity to potential crime scenes, more clearly represent the intent of proactive patrolling. Based upon data recorded by the police department in a city recently experimenting with foot patrols, this research addresses the issue of whether or not proactive foot patrolling has been successful in reducing crime, both violent and property offenses, in a downtown commercial area. |
