NCJ Number
80148
Date Published
1979
Length
110 pages
Annotation
Findings and recommendations are presented from an evaluation of the Open-Beat dispatching and FLAIR (Fleet Location and Information Reporting) system of the St. Louis Police Department, with particular attention to implications for the Integrated Criminal Apprehension Program (ICAP) in which the department will participate.
Abstract
FLAIR is a vehicle location and information system that automatically updates each FLAIR-equipped vehicle's precise location and status and presents this information to police dispatchers in the communications center. The predominant patrol deployment strategy is saturation patrol. Although no specific goals or objectives were defined for the Open-Beat/FLAIR innovation in the 9th District, items were developed to measure the impact of the Open-Beat concept as compared to the Structured-Beat concept. From these items, it can be inferred that the experiment was intended to (1) reduce patrol-suppressible crimes, (2) increase arrests for patrol-interdictable crimes, (3) improve the morale of patrol officers, (4) free more patrol units for uncommitted tactical work than would be available in a Structured-Beat style, and (5) increase officer participation in and acceptance of the FLAIR program. Site visits which involved the obtaining of appropriate data and indepth interviews with management personnel revealed that the Open-Beat/FLAIR program as it exists is not conceptually sound and cannot be operationalized in the present work environment. The program parallels a component of ICAP -- placement of patrol resources at the scene of suppressible problems. It does not, however, embrace the management of support resources which allows that patrol resource deployment to become productive. The program lacks management of calls for service, sophisticated crime analysis, and patrol strategies tailored to the crime problem. The recommendations presented are intended to enhance the current program by permitting suppressible crime to be measurably impacted. Report forms, details on evaluation procedures, dispatching procedures, and other relevant material are appended.