Detecting spatial-temporal clusters of violent behavior in South Korea with space-time permutation scan statistics

This study executed a series of experiments using different minimum and maximum temporal thresholds in detecting clusters of violence. Findings Results of the STPSS analyses with different temporal thresholds detected spatial-temporal clusters in Gwanak-gu. Number, location and duration of clusters depended on the temporal settings of the scanning window. Among four models, a model allowing the possible clusters to be detected within a 7-day minimum and 30-day maximum temporal threshold was more representative of reality than other models. Originality/value This study illustrates the clustering of violence with the STPSS by detecting spatial-temporal clusters of violence and identifying the appropriate temporal threshold in detecting such clusters. Identification of such a threshold is useful to alert law enforcement officers quickly and enables them to allocate their resources optimally.
Source: Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies and Management - Category: Criminology Source Type: research