What defines evidence-based policing?

• A. Using data, research, and analysis to guide practices, policies, and resource deployment.
• B. Relying solely on experience
• C. Deviating from data
• D. Random policing

Answer: (A)

Evidence-based policing is about grounding decisions in data, research, and analysis rather than guesswork or habit. This means using crime statistics, program evaluations, and scientific findings to decide what to do, how to do it, and where to invest resources. By tying policies and practices to evidence, agencies can measure outcomes, compare what works, and adjust approaches based on real results. It also supports accountability, since decisions and resource use can be linked to demonstrated effects.

Relying solely on experience, deviating from data, or policing at random all miss that evidence-driven foundation. Experience alone may reflect personal biases or limited cases, while ignoring data and research can lead to ineffective or unfair practices. Deviating from data ignores what studies show about effectiveness, and random policing lacks a deliberate, evidence-informed plan. So the best choice is using data, research, and analysis to guide practices, policies, and resource deployment.