Integrating GIS and Maximal Covering Models to Determine Optimal Police Patrol Areas

Abstract

This chapter presents a new method for determining the most efficient spatial distribution of police patrols in a metropolitan region, termed the police patrol area covering (PPAC) model. This method employs inputs from geographic information systems (GIS) data layers, analyzes that data through an optimal covering model formulation, and provides alternative optimal solutions for presentation to decision makers. The goal of this research is to increase the level of police service by finding more efficient spatial allocations of the available law enforcement resources. Extensions to the model that incorporate variations in the priority of calls for service based on the type of crime being committed, and the need for an equitable distribution of workload among police officers are discussed. Examples of the inputs from – and outputs to – GIS are provided through a pilot study of the city of Dallas, Texas.