This article provides a descriptive analysis of the law enforcement activities or “levers” undertaken after enforcement operations in Philadelphia as a part of the focused deterrence strategy.
The number of jurisdictions implementing focused deterrence strategies targeted at gangs continues unabated. Although recent research suggests positive impacts of the strategy on reductions in gun violence, little is known about the particular mechanisms operating behind the strategy. The current article quantifies the execution of levers related to arrest, case processing, and probation sanctioning during enforcement activities after shootings. The results show that Philadelphia achieved success in implementing the enforcement levers as intended, and there was little evidence that arrest practices were overly aggressive. The authors suggest that future evaluations seek to carefully document the wide array of levers used in concert with an assessment of community understanding of and reactions to the strategy as well as an examination of reactions of group members targeted. (publisher abstract modified)
Downloads
Similar Publications
- Understanding the Broader Impacts of Body Worn Cameras on Police Work and Community Perceptions: A Multi-Method Assessment
- Examining Mentoring Practices Tailored to Youth Needs, Technical Report
- Trauma Behind the Keyboard: Exploring Disparities in Child Sexual Abuse Material Exposure and Mental Health Factors among Police Investigators and Forensic Examiners – A Network Analysis