What is the name of the policing approach that relies on data analysis to forecast and prevent crime?

• A. Community policing
• B. Intelligence-led policing
• C. Traditional policing
• D. Professional policing

Answer: (B)

Intelligence-led policing relies on data analysis to forecast and prevent crime. By collecting and analyzing crime data from multiple sources—reports, patterns, offender histories, surveillance, and geographic information systems—it identifies hotspots, likely offenders, and emerging trends. This intelligence then guides where and when to deploy patrols, task forces, and preventive interventions, making actions proactive rather than purely reactive.

This approach stands apart from community policing, which centers on building trust and partnerships with the public; traditional policing, which emphasizes responding to incidents and enforcing laws; and professional policing, which focuses on standards, training, and evidence-based methods. The emphasis on turning data into actionable insight to shape operations is what makes intelligence-led policing the best fit for forecasting and preventing crime.