POL3701
Assignment 2 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 7 April 2026
This document includes:
Helpful answers and guidelines
Detailed explanations and/ or calculations
References
Connect with the tutor on
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
Effective crime prevention and investigation depend on accurate and timely
information. Two important analytical tools used in policing are the Geographic
Information System and Crime Pattern Analysis. Both tools assist police officials to
understand crime trends and allocate resources strategically.
Geographic Information System
Geographic analysis refers to identifying where crimes are committed within a
specific geographical area. It is also known as crime mapping. The Geographic
Information System is the electronic version of crime mapping and functions as a
daily crime report database (POL3701 Study Guide, 2020). The Crime
Administration System loads information directly onto the GIS database whenever a
crime is reported at the community service centre. This means that the system is
continuously updated and provides real time spatial information about crime
incidents.
GIS documents provide specific and structured information regarding reported
crimes. Firstly, the system records the CAS number, which serves as a unique
reference number for each reported case. This ensures proper tracking and
accountability. Secondly, it records the date of occurrence, allowing police officials
to determine when the crime took place. This is important for identifying temporal
patterns.
Thirdly, GIS documents indicate the type of crime committed. This classification
enables analysis of specific crime categories such as burglary, robbery or assault.
Fourthly, the system captures the address where the incident took place, which is
essential for identifying crime hot spots and high risk areas. Lastly, GIS records the
method used or modus operandi, which helps investigators identify similarities
between cases and possible links to repeat offenders (POL3701 Study Guide, 2020).
By providing these details, GIS enables station teams to determine crimes
committed within a particular time frame and geographical location. It supports both
operational planning and strategic crime prevention.
© Study Shack 2026. All rights Reserved +27 81 278 3372
Assignment 2 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 7 April 2026
This document includes:
Helpful answers and guidelines
Detailed explanations and/ or calculations
References
Connect with the tutor on
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
Effective crime prevention and investigation depend on accurate and timely
information. Two important analytical tools used in policing are the Geographic
Information System and Crime Pattern Analysis. Both tools assist police officials to
understand crime trends and allocate resources strategically.
Geographic Information System
Geographic analysis refers to identifying where crimes are committed within a
specific geographical area. It is also known as crime mapping. The Geographic
Information System is the electronic version of crime mapping and functions as a
daily crime report database (POL3701 Study Guide, 2020). The Crime
Administration System loads information directly onto the GIS database whenever a
crime is reported at the community service centre. This means that the system is
continuously updated and provides real time spatial information about crime
incidents.
GIS documents provide specific and structured information regarding reported
crimes. Firstly, the system records the CAS number, which serves as a unique
reference number for each reported case. This ensures proper tracking and
accountability. Secondly, it records the date of occurrence, allowing police officials
to determine when the crime took place. This is important for identifying temporal
patterns.
Thirdly, GIS documents indicate the type of crime committed. This classification
enables analysis of specific crime categories such as burglary, robbery or assault.
Fourthly, the system captures the address where the incident took place, which is
essential for identifying crime hot spots and high risk areas. Lastly, GIS records the
method used or modus operandi, which helps investigators identify similarities
between cases and possible links to repeat offenders (POL3701 Study Guide, 2020).
By providing these details, GIS enables station teams to determine crimes
committed within a particular time frame and geographical location. It supports both
operational planning and strategic crime prevention.
© Study Shack 2026. All rights Reserved +27 81 278 3372
