This case study shows the value of implementing statistical analysis software.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) is committed to the Community Problem-Oriented Policing (CPOP) philosophy, a holistic approach that regards crime as a community problem requiring citizen involvement and careful analysis of information surrounding the issue. The process seeks long-term solutions to crime by identifying its underlying causes, educating the community on the extent of the problem, and then working with the community to develop collaborative solutions that effectively address these causes.

Situational problem solving is an integral part of community policing. By viewing themselves as problem solvers and catalysts for long-term change, police officers work with the community to develop solutions that are sustainable over time without major police intervention, rather than provide quick, temporary fixes.

Using PASW Statistics, CMPD completed extensive data analysis to document and analyze the multiple variables associated with their particular problems, as well as assess citizen satisfaction with community policing. The results of this analysis presented compelling evidence that community involvement was necessary to develop effective long-term solutions.