ABSTRACT
This chapter makes the case for a thorough problem scan of the crime problems in an area. By using the analogy of a pilot approaching an airfield, it explains the level of perspective needed by a local area police commander. It discusses the value of a harm-focused approach given the wide range of incidents that are a draw on police time and energy. A box outlines a checklist of topics that a commander should consider in a problem scan. It shows that a problem scan can involve problems that are not just about crime but also vulnerable populations, internal police issues, traffic, and wicked problems. The CHEERS framework for problem identification is reviewed, and I discuss chronic problems, crime spikes, and crime panics. Seasonality and regression to the mean are explained to help police leaders understand these issues in their command. An example problem scan completes the chapter.
