Predictive Policing

Predictive policing is the use of data-driven models to forecast where and when crimes are likely to occur, and in some cases which individuals or groups are at higher risk of offending or victimization. By analyzing historical crime records, environmental factors, socioeconomic indicators, and real-time incident data, these systems generate risk scores, heatmaps, or priority lists that guide patrol routes, investigations, and preventive interventions. This application matters because police departments and public agencies operate under tight resource constraints while facing pressure to reduce crime, respond faster, and justify deployment decisions. Predictive policing promises more efficient use of officers and budgets, earlier intervention before crimes happen, and evidence-based planning for community programs. At the same time, it raises serious concerns about bias, transparency, legality, and public trust, driving parallel work on fairness assessment, bias detection, and governance frameworks for its responsible use.