Is Problem-Oriented Policing Effective in Reducing Crime and Disorder? Findings from a Campbell Systematic Review

Weisburd, David L.; Telep, Cody; Hinkle, Joshua; Eck, John

Is Problem-Oriented Policing Effective in Reducing Crime and Disorder? Findings from a Campbell Systematic Review

Criminology and Public Policy 9 (1): 139-172.

Hebrew University of Jerusalem Legal Research Paper

34 Pages Posted: 19 Jul 2015

See all articles by David L. Weisburd

David L. Weisburd

Hebrew University of Jerusalem; George Mason University - The Department of Criminology, Law & Society; Hebrew University of Jerusalem - Faculty of Law

John Eck

University of Cincinnati

Date Written: July 17, 2015

Abstract

We conducted a Campbell systematic review to examine the effectiveness of problem-oriented policing (POP) in reducing crime and disorder. After an exhaustive search strategy that identified more than 5,500 articles and reports, we found only ten methodologically rigorous evaluations that met our inclusion criteria. Using meta-analytic techniques, we found an overall modest but statistically significant impact of POP on crime and disorder. We also report on our analysis of pre/post comparison studies. Although these studies are less methodologically rigorous, they are more numerous. The results of these studies indicate an overwhelmingly positive impact from POP.

Keywords: problem-oriented policing, Campbell systematic review, police effectiveness, metaanalysis

Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation

Weisburd, David L. and Telep, Cody and Hinkle, Joshua and Eck, John, Is Problem-Oriented Policing Effective in Reducing Crime and Disorder? Findings from a Campbell Systematic Review (July 17, 2015). Criminology and Public Policy 9 (1): 139-172. ; Hebrew University of Jerusalem Legal Research Paper. Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2632671