Reference: Krimmel. J. T., & Mele, M. (1998). Investigating stolen vehicle dump sites: An interrupted time series quasi-experiment. Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies and Management, 21, 479-489.

Strategy: Problem-oriented policing

Matrix Dimensions:
X-axis: Communities/neighborhoods
Y-axis: Focused
Z-axis: Proactive

Results: Statistically significant success
Reduced auto theft following targeting vehicle dump sites

Methodological Rigor: Moderate- time series

Abstract: (from NCJRS) This article studies the effectiveness of a multijurisdictional law enforcement response to increased motor vehicle thefts in downtown urban areas of New Jersey. The primary objective of this study was to assess the impact of a multijurisdictional law enforcement approach on auto thefts in four urban areas of New Jersey. A secondary objective was to explore the benefits of this approach in crime analysis and problem solving. Rather than responding to auto theft with traditional surveillance techniques, the task force investigated the places where car thieves abandoned the stolen vehicles - outlying municipalities, where they would steal another vehicle. The intervention of the task force had a significant impact on the number of reported auto thefts in the targeted jurisdictions. Strong patterns of crime and victimization confirm the need for regional analysis. Detailed multijurisdictional spatio-temporal analysis of crime trends can enhance crime prevention strategies.