Covers many innovative policing strategies, some that have been supported by research (e.g., directed patrol,
hot spots policing), some strategies where findings have been more mixed (e.g. proactive arrest seems to have
a stronger specific deterrent effect than a general deterrence effect), and strategies that are relatively new and
require more research before they can be considered effective evidence-based strategies (e.g., COMPSTAT).
current within the past 10 years
from legitimate news sites
different from what other students have posted.
When you post the article, provide a few paragraphs of explanation as to how the article fits with the topic of
the chapter. Your explanation must be at least 300 words long to receive credit.
The policies this course covers influence the daily lives of those directly involved in the criminal justice system
(practitioners and offenders) and citizens within the community. While many of the policies are in place for
crime control, this course demonstrates that not all policies have the desired effect. You have discretion over
what to include in your posts.
What to Include
Posts should discuss your selected news article and may be prompted by some of the following ideas:
Summarize the policy discussed within your article, where and when was this policy put in place? What
problem is this policy intending to solve? Is this problem a local, state, or national issue?
Provide background information about the history of this policy- how long has it been in place? How did it
originate? Did a single event prompt this policy?
Which goal of crime control do you feel is most reflected in your article (e.g., deterrence, retribution,
incapacitation, rehabilitation)?
Does research indicate this type of policy/program works to reduce crime?
What are some positive impacts of this policy? (e.g. decreased crime through incapacitation, deterrence,
improved police-community relations, increase perceptions of neighborhood safety, cost)
What are some negative impacts of this policy/program? (e.g. racial disparity, negative perceptions of police,
mental health, harming families, cost)
Does the author of the article demonstrate a bias? Are they for or against the policy?
How would you change or improve the policy/program?
Is there another policy that you believe would be more effective?
Discussion Post Grading Criteria
To earn 10 points replies must demonstrate the following criteria:
The post provided a relevant article through attaching a PDF or providing a link. The article was well-selected
and relates well to the module topic.
Post contained greater than or equal to 300 words.
The post applied logically to the topic being discussed. Connections were made between subjects, as well as
between the material and the student’s life.
Posts were made on time. Original posts (article + analysis) must be made by Thursday of the relevant week,
and responses must be made by Sunday.
The author used her/his own voice, and added something unique to the conversation. The author consistently
used sources cited to build new ideas.
All references must be cited using APA formatting
The author used her/his own voice, and added something unique to the conversation. The author consistently
used sources cited to build new ideas.
Conventional, correct language mechanics were used, with no more than two mistakes in grammar, spelling, or
punctuation.
Sample Solution
