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Bethke, E. (2002) Geographic profiling
of Peterborough arson cases of 2000 and 2001: preliminary data analysis and
manual crime mapping, dissertation for BA (hons) Department of Forensic
Science; APU, Cambridge. www.fitting-in.com/bethke.htm. |
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AbstractIn
this paper, the arson data of malicious fires in the years 2000 and 2001 in
Peterborough’s Central Ward area was analysed with the main focus on
geographical distribution of the crimes.
This was done by organising the data into various relevant subsections
– months, day of the week and time of the day. After having completed that task, the arson data could be
plotted onto a street map of the search area to visualise the sites. The next step entailed a detailed
examination of these subsections and crime maps for any noticeable arson
centres, i.e. “hot-spots”, and/or for any distinct arson patterns, i.e. crime
series. The areas main arson centres
and high-risk times, as well as a few potential serial cases, were determined
through this investigation. The
methodologies of computerised crime incident analysis were discussed in their
applicability and usefulness in arson prevention and reduction
initiatives. In this context, the
data requirements for the CrimeStat Analysis Programme were identified. This led to the conclusion that the data
was not detailed enough, making even the map plotting quite awkward. As
a final point, the organisation of police patrols around “hot-spot” areas and
high-risk times was discussed, in conjunction with the hopefully increased
deterring effects through police presence. |
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AcknowledgementThis
paper was a product of many people’s guidance and assistance. I truly appreciate the encouragement I
received from everyone and would like to take this opportunity to express my
gratitude. Special
thanks go to my Project Supervisor, Mr. David Hughes, and my link to the Fire
and Rescue Service, Dr. David Baigent, for their continuous support and
advice throughout the course of my research. From
the Huntingdon Fire Station, I want to thank ADO Kevin Smith for helping me
to focus my research on a more valuable study area and for putting me in
contact with the relevant fire personnel. Without
any data, there would be no project – so, I would like to thank Mr. Wayne Law
and Mr. Keith Shillam at Fire Headquarters in Huntingdon for providing me
with the necessary arson data and street maps of Central Ward, Peterborough. Finally,
I especially want to thank my family for tolerating all the time spent in my
“world of arson” during the holidays, and to my friends for unfailingly
managing to distract me from my work – it helped, honest!!! |
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