Crime Mapping in Practice: Map Interpretation & Analyst Evaluation

Crime maps are one of the most visible products of crime analysis, but their value depends on design, clarity, data selection, and purpose. This assignment asks you to evaluate a crime map not just for what it shows, but for how effectively it communicates information.

Select ONE Map

From the Product Bank (Canvas Files Maps), select one map to analyze. (see attachment)

Identify Map Characteristics

Using bullet points, provide the following information:

• Type of map
• (e.g., single symbol, graduated symbols, choropleth, density/heat map)
• Geographic area represented
• (e.g., city, neighborhood, police beat, state)
• Data displayed on the map
• (e.g., crime incidents, traffic crashes, calls for service)
• Time period of the data
• (List specific dates or date ranges shown)
• Creator of the map
• (Agency and individual analyst, if listed)

Analyst Evaluation

Write a short, well-structured paragraph (or use numbered responses) addressing the following:

1. Purpose of the Map

• What do you believe the map was designed to communicate or support?
• Who is the likely audience (patrol, command staff, public, investigators)?

1. Effectiveness

• Does the map appear to successfully serve its intended purpose? Why or why not?

1. Clarity and Usefulness

• Is the map informative and easy to interpret?
• Are key elements (legend, title, scale, symbols) clear and appropriate?

1. Logic and Sense-Making

• Does the map make sense given the data and geographic area?
• Are there any aspects that could confuse or mislead the viewer?

Textbook: Crime Analysis with Crime Mapping

• Author: Rachel B. Santos
• Publisher: Sage Inc., 2022
• Edition: 5th Edition