Crime Mapping in Bosnia and Herzegovina - Current Situation and Prospects for the Future

Abstract

Reason(s) for writing and research problem(s): It is becoming increasingly more diffi- cult for traditional systems of operational and analytical work to respond to types of criminality encountered today thus because they are unable to provide accurate data in sufficient time to predict trends and provide support to the decision making process. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) use computer-processed geographical maps as an aid to visualize and access large amounts of data that are located within specific databases. In this way, the work of police agencies with respect to critical information detection process and in particular those events related to criminal trends has become significantly easier and more quickly. This means that GISs are an important means of combating criminality, because of their tools for crime mapping and analysis. In addi- tion, these systems provide an analysis of complex and at first sight unrelated events displayed on multiple layered area maps.

Goals of this paper (scientific and/ or social): In preventing and combatting crime, GISs can be used in three different areas: crime mapping, crime analysis and investiga- tion and finally pre-investigation work. In this paper, the authors will discuss all three aspects of GIS usage, focusing on its capabilities and advantages in improving crime control in society.

methodology/ Design: In order to achieve these goals, it will be necessary to conduct specific theoretical research focusing on crime mapping categories, including the legal framework and the norms regulating this area. In addition, the authors will perform 

empirical research of an appropriate sample of institutions are likely to use crime map- ping in their work, and will also apply quantitive and qualitive analysis methods based on the empirical material. The initial theoretical basis of the work will be presented by focusing on environmental criminology. However, other concepts of criminalistics and other sciences either within or outside of criminology will also be taken into con- sideration.

Research/ Paper limitations: The main limitation of this research might be the limited practical use of crime mapping within institutions dealing with formal social control, and reluctance of supervisors within these institutions to improve efficiency by intro- ducing new technologies and methods, as was found in some recent research in the organization and functioning of police and judicial institutions.

Results/ Findings: Through a theoretical discussion of the current situation of the above mentioned problems in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the authors will attempt to propose concrete future activities involving the use of GIS technology in police agencies.

General conclusion: In conclusion, the authors will indicate the possibility of develop- ing GIS technologies and using them extensively on a daily basis in police agencies.

Research/ Paper validity: Improvement of a formal system of social control of crimi- nality relies upon findings that are derived from scientific research used to improve the knowledge about phenomenology and etiology of criminal behavior, as well as mechanisms and effects of reaction to criminality. Criminology and other related dis- ciplines, by using theoretical concepts of natural, social and technical sciences, is con- stantly attempting not only to innovations in the area of analysis, but also to more ef- ficient and effective crime control. Results of research into the crime mapping capacity in the BiH community should justify the scientific and social significance of this paper.