What does hotspot policing primarily focus on?

Hotspot policing primarily focuses on deterring criminal activity in high-crime areas. This approach is based on the understanding that crime is not evenly distributed across geographical areas; rather, it tends to cluster in specific locations known as hotspots. By concentrating law enforcement efforts in these areas, agencies aim to reduce crime rates through a visible presence, targeted interventions, and community partnerships.

This strategy is guided by crime analysis data that identifies where and when crime is most likely to occur, allowing officers to be deployed more effectively. The intent is not just to manage crime but to proactively prevent it by making these hotspots less conducive to criminal behavior. By increasing police activity in these locations, the police can create a deterrent effect that can lead to a decrease in overall crime rates in those areas over time.