LESSON 2/TASK 1
facility for maximum visibility and deterrence at a highly vulnerable time.
MP assets must be dispersed to locations, and at the times, when incidents are likely to occur. The
amount and volume of crime that occurs is not evenly distributed over the course of a week or a day. In
100 offenses reported during a seven day period, more crimes will have occurred on certain days, at
certain times, and in certain places. Analysis of such information keep the PM alert to the changing
needs for police services. The services required, matched to the resources available, can be provided
in the areas and at the times they are most needed.
Selective enforcement is founded on a continuous process of accumulating and analyzing data.
Information in complaint reports, traffic accident reports, and offense reports are constantly examined.
Each is studied to provide additional information upon which to base informed decisions.
An analysis of data accumulated over a period of time can show the nature of a problem and how often
it recurs. Analysis can also show the requirements for the most effective assignment of MP. This data
allows the PM to plan enforcement activities without relying on intuition or arbitrary judgments.
The basis for selective enforcement is accurate, historical data on time, place, type, and frequency of
incidents or violations. Careful interpretation of this data can help determine the causes of crime,
project operating costs, forecast personnel and equipment requirements, and maintain accurate reports
on the status of discipline within the command. This permits the commander to institute policies and
programs to educate and inform the command, and to make corrections that enhance their combat
readiness.
PATROL DISTRIBUTION PLAN
A major tool in the selective enforcement program is to develop a patrol distribution plan. The patrol
distribution plan tells what resources are available and how, when, and why they are to be used. The
efficient use of manpower and other resources is critical for effective patrol operations. The patrol
distribution plan must address both available manpower, equipment, and the needs of enforcement. It
must also consider the other services and training that are required of the military police.
Patrol distribution equalizes the work load among patrol units. If the work load is unbalanced, one unit
may spend
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