Which type of patrol uses data and statistics to determine areas that need monitoring?

Directed patrol is a proactive law enforcement strategy that utilizes crime data and statistics to identify specific areas that may require increased monitoring and enforcement efforts. This approach allows officers to focus their resources on locations where crime is more likely to occur based on historical data or recent trends, thereby enhancing crime prevention and community safety.

This method contrasts with other types of patrol. Roving patrols typically cover a wide area without a specific target, often responding to calls for service rather than focusing on high-crime zones. Saturation patrol involves deploying a large number of officers to an area simultaneously, often to combat a specific issue, without necessarily relying on data to identify problem spots. Random patrol entails officers patrolling areas without a predetermined pattern or focus, which may not effectively address areas of concern indicated by statistical analysis. In summary, directed patrol's reliance on data for guidance makes it a strategic approach to law enforcement, allowing for more efficient and effective use of police resources.