Assignment 2 Semester 1 2026
Unique number: 279370
Due Date: 07 April 2026
QUESTION 1
Effective crime analysis is essential for informed decision making and proactive policing.
Two important analytical tools used in crime intelligence are the Geographic Information
System (GIS) and Crime Pattern Analysis (CPA). Both tools assist police officials in
identifying trends, understanding spatial distribution, and deploying resources effectively.
Although they are related, each provides different types of information and serves different
operational purposes.
Geographic Information System (GIS)
The Geographic Information System is an electronic crime mapping tool that provides spatial
and temporal information about crimes reported within a specific policing area. It is
essentially the digital version of traditional crime mapping. The system operates as a daily
crime reporting database that receives information directly from the Crime Administration
System when crimes are reported at the Community Service Centre (POL3701 Study Guide,
2020).
Terms of use
By making use of this document you agree to:
Use this document as a guide for learning, comparison and reference purpose,
Terms of use
Not to duplicate, reproduce and/or misrepresent the contents of this document as your own work,
By making use of this document you agree to:
Use this document
Fully accept the consequences
solely as a guide forshould you plagiarise
learning, reference,or and
misuse this document.
comparison purposes,
Ensure originality of your own work, and fully accept the consequences should you plagiarise or misuse this document.
Comply with all relevant standards, guidelines, regulations, and legislation governing academic and written work.
Disclaimer
Great care has been taken in the preparation of this document; however, the contents are provided "as is" without any express or
implied representations or warranties. The author accepts no responsibility or liability for any actions taken based on the
information contained within this document. This document is intended solely for comparison, research, and reference purposes.
Reproduction, resale, or transmission of any part of this document, in any form or by any means, is strictly prohibited.
, +27 81 278 3372
QUESTION 1
Effective crime analysis is essential for informed decision making and proactive policing.
Two important analytical tools used in crime intelligence are the Geographic Information
System (GIS) and Crime Pattern Analysis (CPA). Both tools assist police officials in
identifying trends, understanding spatial distribution, and deploying resources effectively.
Although they are related, each provides different types of information and serves different
operational purposes.
Geographic Information System (GIS)
The Geographic Information System is an electronic crime mapping tool that provides
spatial and temporal information about crimes reported within a specific policing area. It is
essentially the digital version of traditional crime mapping. The system operates as a daily
crime reporting database that receives information directly from the Crime Administration
System when crimes are reported at the Community Service Centre (POL3701 Study
Guide, 2020).
GIS documents provide detailed and specific information regarding each reported crime.
Firstly, the system records the CAS number, which uniquely identifies each reported
case. This number allows investigators and analysts to track individual incidents
accurately. Secondly, it provides the date of occurrence, which helps determine when
the crime took place. This information is crucial for identifying time trends and patterns.
Thirdly, GIS records the type of crime committed, allowing classification into categories
such as burglary, robbery, assault, or vehicle theft. This classification supports statistical
analysis and trend monitoring. Fourthly, the system documents the exact address or
location where the incident occurred. This geographic detail enables spatial mapping
and the identification of high crime concentration areas.
Lastly, GIS includes information regarding the method used or modus operandi. The
modus operandi refers to how the crime was committed. This assists in identifying
similarities between incidents and may indicate whether crimes are linked to the same
offender or group (POL3701 Study Guide, 2020).
Disclaimer
Great care has been taken in the preparation of this document; however, the contents are provided "as is"
without any express or implied representations or warranties. The author accepts no responsibility or
liability for any actions taken based on the information contained within this document. This document is
intended solely for comparison, research, and reference purposes. Reproduction, resale, or transmission
of any part of this document, in any form or by any means, is strictly prohibited.