What does the 'Scanning' phase of the SARA process involve?

The 'Scanning' phase of the SARA process is crucial because it focuses on identifying specific problems that require attention within a community. This initial step is about recognizing issues that may need policing or community intervention, which can vary from crime trends, quality of life concerns, or specific incidents affecting citizens.

By effectively identifying the problems, law enforcement agencies can prioritize their responses and allocate resources appropriately. This phase sets the foundation for further analysis and responses in the subsequent stages of the SARA model: Analysis, Response, and Assessment. The clarity gained in the Scanning phase guides law enforcement in their strategic planning and operational decisions.

The other aspects of the SARA process, such as evaluating outcomes or developing policies, occur in later stages and are dependent upon having accurately identified issues in the Scanning phase. Therefore, understanding and executing Scanning effectively is paramount for the success of the entire problem-solving model.