The Handbook of Knowledge-Based Policing - Current Conceptions and Future Directions

Recent trends within community policing suggest that the next generation of community policing will be more 'knowledge-based', involving a shift toward a problem-oriented and strategic use of information as a basis for management and better use of police resources. The Handbook of Knowledge-Based Policing examines how knowledge-based policing can improve the effectiveness, equity and efficiency of community policing. With contributions from a mix of academics and practitioners, this volume:

• Critically evaluates the effectiveness of community policing in seven countries.
• Discusses intelligence-led policing and the emergence of knowledge-based policing.
• Examines the impact knowledge-based policing will have on policing initiatives.

Discussions are set firmly within the context of current debates on risk and the risk society, the broadening or narrowing of the police role, the importance of networks and governance and regulation. This comprehensive collection identifies the factors that will shape the next generation of Community Policing. It is a must-have resource for researchers and students of policing, policy makers and police officers. It will also be of interest to the growing number of people actively involved in crime and disorder partnerships.


Tom Williamson (1947-2007) was a Visiting Professor at the Institute of Criminal Justice Studies, University of Portsmouth. He was a chartered forensic psychologists and held a doctorate from the University of Kent for his research into investigative interviewing. He was a former police office who retired from the post of Deputy Chief Constable of the Nottinghamshire Police in 2001 and was previously a Commander at Scotland Yard.