NCJ Number
219561
Date Published
April 2007
Length
66 pages
Annotation
This law enforcement guide describes the problem of drive-by shootings and factors contributing to drive-by shootings, a discussion on how to understand the local problem, and responses to the problem of drive-by shootings.
Abstract
This guide, developed under Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and one in the Problem-Specific Guides Series, begins by describing the problem of drive-by shootings and reviewing factors that increase its risks. It then identifies a series of questions to help analyze the local drive-by shooting problem. It reviews responses to the problem and what is known about them from evaluative research and police practice. Drive-by shootings are but one aspect of the larger set of problems related to gang and gun violence. This guide is limited to addressing the particular harms drive-by shootings cause. The basic facts regarding drive-by shootings must now be combined with a more specific understanding of the local problem. Analyzing the local problem carefully will help in designing a more effective response strategy. An analysis of the local problem should provide a better understanding of the factors contributing to it. Once the local problem is analyzed possible responses to address the problem should now be considered: 1) understanding gang membership dynamics and targeting the activity, not the individual; 2) conducting crackdowns, initiating sweeps targeting known offenders, tracking current tensions and past altercations; 3) creating witness incentives; and 4) implementing a "pulling levers" focused deterrence strategy. Responses are presented and discussed, as well as responses with limited effectiveness, such as targeting gun traffickers, teaching conflict resolution skills, and restricting entry to high-risk neighborhoods. Appendix, references