Which term describes law enforcement's aim to identify recurring crime patterns and problems?

• A. Undercover operations
• B. Crime analysis
• C. Patrol saturation
• D. Evidence collection

Answer: (B)

Crime analysis is the process of turning crime data into actionable insights about where, when, and how offenses occur. By examining patterns and trends—such as a block experiencing a spike in burglaries at a certain time, or repeat victims in a neighborhood—police can identify recurring problems and target interventions effectively. This helps allocate resources, shape proactive strategies, and measure whether changes are reducing crime. In contrast, undercover operations focus on covert investigations, patrol saturation increases visible patrols to deter crime, and evidence collection gathers physical proof for prosecutions. So the term that best describes the aim to identify recurring crime patterns and problems is crime analysis.