CANADIAN SOCIETY OF EVIDENCE-BASED POLICING
ABC's of EBP
The ABCs of Evidence-Based Policing is a collaborative initiative between the Barrie Police Service and our partners. This engaging series is designed to offer a fun, accessible introduction to key concepts and practices in evidence-based policing. Whether you're new to the field or just looking to expand your understanding, each topic breaks down complex ideas into easy-to-understand segments.
Click on any of the titles below to learn more!
EVIDENCE-BASED POLICING
Evidence-Based Policing means using research, data, and real results to help police make smart decisions about how to keep communities safe.
Instead of relying only on tradition or guesswork, this approach looks at what actually works-based on facts, studies, and past experience.
By focusing on proven methods, police can use their time and resources in the best way possible to reduce crime and build trust with the community.
Key Principles of EBP
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Research-Informed Decisions: Policies and actions are guided by scientific studies and proven methods.
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Data-Driven Practices: Police use local crime data and trends to target efforts where they are most needed.
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Ongoing Evaluation: Strategies are continuously monitored and adjusted based on results and new findings.
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Collaboration: Often involves partnerships between police services, academic researchers, and the community.
3T's of EBP
Evidence-Based Policing focuses on smart, effective strategies. The 3Ts help guide this approach:
Targeting: Focus on the right people, places, and problems that need attention most.
Testing: Try new approaches and use real data to see what works best.
Tracking: Measure and monitor outcomes to keep improving over time.
RISK TERRAIN MODELING (RTM)
Risk Terrain Modeling (RTM) is a tool used in evidence-based policing to map and analyze places where crime is more likely to happen.
Instead of focusing just on past crimes or people, RTM looks at environmental risk factors-things like empty buildings, poorly lit areas, or locations near bars or convenience stores.
By understanding how the environment contributes to crime, police can: Identify high-risk areas, focus resources more effectively, prevent crime before it happens.
ROUTINE ACTIVITY THEORY (RAT)
Routine Activity Theory (RAT) helps explain when and where crimes are likely to happen. According to RAT, a crime occurs when three things come together at the same time and place:
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A motivated offender – someone willing to commit a crime.
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A suitable target – a person, object, or place that’s vulnerable.
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Lack of capable guardianship – no one or nothing around to prevent the crime (like police, cameras, or bystanders).
If one of these is missing, the crime is less likely to happen. RAT helps police focus on reducing opportunities for crime by changing the environment or increasing guardianship.
PROBLEM ORIENTED POLICING (P.O.P.)
A proactive policing approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of recurring crime and public safety issues, rather than repeatedly responding to individual incidents. Using data, research, and collaboration with community partners, POP develops targeted, evidence-informed strategies to achieve long-term reductions in crime and improve community safety.
