It is now possible to predict the future when it comes to crime. In Data Mining and Predictive Analysis, Dr. Colleen McCue describes not only the possibilities for data mining to assist law enforcement professionals, but also provides real-world examples showing how data mining has identified crime trends, anticipated community hot-spots, and refined resource deployment decisions. In this book Dr. McCue describes her use of "off the shelf" software to graphically depict crime trends and to predict where future crimes are likely to occur. Armed with this data, law enforcement executives can develop "risk-based deployment strategies," that allow them to make informed and cost-efficient staffing decisions based on the likelihood of specific criminal activity.

Knowledge of advanced statistics is not a prerequisite for using Data Mining and Predictive Analysis. The book is a starting point for those thinking about using data mining in a law enforcement setting. It provides terminology, concepts, practical application of these concepts, and examples to highlight specific techniques and approaches in crime and intelligence analysis, which law enforcement and intelligence professionals can tailor to their own unique situation and responsibilities.