What was once considered an effective strategy for crime control but has been shown to have limitations?

Immediate response to calls has historically been viewed as a primary strategy in crime control, with the belief that faster responses lead to higher rates of apprehending suspects and solving crimes. This strategy prioritizes the quick arrival of officers at the scene of incidents reported by the public, under the assumption that timing is critical to effective policing.

However, studies have illustrated limitations to this approach. While immediate responses can be crucial in emergencies, many calls to police do not result in an immediate opportunity for apprehension or intervention, especially in property crime cases where the suspect may have already fled the scene by the time officers arrive. Additionally, the reliance on immediate response can divert resources from other proactive policing efforts that may help prevent crime in the first place.

The other strategies listed in the question have different focuses. Preventive patrol emphasizes routine visibility of officers to deter crime; community policing fosters partnerships between law enforcement and communities to address underlying issues contributing to crime; directed patrol focuses on specific areas experiencing a higher incidence of crime to increase visibility and reduce criminal activity. These strategies tend to incorporate broader approaches and preventative measures that acknowledge the complexities of crime and community dynamics, which might be more effective in certain contexts compared to a sole focus on immediate responses.