Measuring Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Nonviolent Crime Using Multiple Methods

Abstract

Use of geographic information systems (GIS) in crime analysis has a long history, from the days of pin maps until now. Statistical analysis combined with visual representation is a powerful tool to examine and analyze crime. This study aims to measure the temporal displacement of nonviolent crimes like burglary and motor vehicle theft in Harris County, Texas. GIS tools used by crime analysts include buffer, hotspot analysis, and quadrant analysis. Each tool functions uniquely to determine spatial extent, locate clusters, and analyze spatial relationships. The Directional Distribution tool in ArcGIS 10.0 helps not only in finding spatial extent but also in determining the direction of crime. There are various benefits in determining crime direction. For instance, the directional trend of crime can be used in identifying current locations and to predict future occurrences of crime. In this study, temporal analysis is used to find displacement of nonviolent crimes. Finally, this displacement is analyzed to identify if there exists a relationship between orientation of crime events and city growth.