Evidence-Based Policing

What is evidence-based policing and how is it done? This book provides an answer to both questions, offering an introduction for undergraduate students and a hands-on guide for police officers wanting to know how to put principles into practice. It serves as a gentle introduction to the terminology, ideas, and scientific methods associated with evidence-based policy, and outlines some of the existing policing applications. A couple of introductory chapters summarize evidence-based policy and its goals and origins. The core of the book eases the reader through a range of practical chapters that answer questions many people have about evidence-based practice in policing. What does good science look like? How do I find reliable research? How do I evaluate research? What is a hypothesis? How do randomized experiments work? These chapters not only provide a practical guide to reading and using existing research, but also a roadmap for readers wanting to start their own research project. The final chapters outline different ways to publish research, discuss concerns around evidence-based policing, and ask what is in the future for this emerging field. Annotated with the author’s own experiences as a police officer and researcher, and filled with simple aids, flowcharts, and figures, this practical guide is the most accessible introduction to evidence-based policing available. It is essential reading for policing students and police professionals alike. Further resources are available on the book’s website at evidencebasedpolicing.net.

Evidence-based policing must engage a wider audience, including students and police officers new to the subject. Jerry Ratcliffe’s accessible and practical book is an ideal introduction. It not only shows why EBP is so important, but also how to do policing with better evidence for better results. If every police officer could master the content of this book, the world would be a safer place. Lawrence W. Sherman, Cambridge University and Honorary President, Society for Evidence-Based PolicingAs a police practitioner who understands the complexity of evidence-based policing, I highly recommend Jerry’s new book which breaks it down into manageable bite-size chunks. With simple figures, insightful callouts, flowcharts, and short, easy-to-read chapters, this is the perfect guide to this emerging paradigm.Renée Mitchell, Police Sergeant (Sacramento PD retd.) and President of the American Society of Evidence-Based PolicingPolice leaders who are interested in understanding the knowledge base of their profession need this book. It helps executives make smart, informed decisions about new plans, programs, and initiatives they may be considering. It also gives leaders the information necessary to collaborate with academics on research projects that will benefit their agencies and the profession.John Hall, Deputy Inspector, New York City Police Department and NIJ LEADS scholarThis book breaks down and practically explains evidence-based policing. Not only is it a useful guide for police officers wanting to understand if their strategies, tactics, or policies are having the desired impact, it should be used by researchers wanting to work with police to better understand evidence-based policing. Mike Newman, Detective Inspector, Queensland Police Service, Australia

Jerry H. Ratcliffe is a former British police officer, Professor of Criminal Justice at Temple University, US, and host of the popular Reducing Crime podcast.