Reducing Crime

Jerry Ratcliffe interviews Dr. Robert Schug, a neuro criminologist and clinical psychologist, about the real science behind serial killer research. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding serial killers, the difference between serial, spree, and mass killers, and the need for more scientific research in this field. Dr. Schug also talks about his work interviewing serial killers and the importance of approaching them as humans rather than monsters. He emphasizes the potential for identifying and intervening with individuals who exhibit patterns of risk factors before they become violent.

Jerry Ratcliffe interviews Philip Atiba Goff, an expert in racial bias and discrimination. They discuss the concept of implicit bias and its impact on policing, as well as the limitations of current training programs. Goff emphasizes the importance of shifting the focus from individual character to situational factors when addressing racial disparities in policing. He also highlights the need for better measurement of the consequences of policing practices and the importance of including marginalized communities in decision-making processes. The conversation touches on the challenges of discussing race in America and the role of criminology in addressing racial inequities.

In this episode of the Reducing Crime podcast, host Jerry Ratcliffe interviews Chris Magnus, the police chief for Tucson, Arizona. Magnus discusses the innovative approaches his department is taking to address social problems affecting the city, such as homelessness and substance abuse. He emphasizes the need for a shift away from a reflexive arrest approach and towards more evidence-based and tailored solutions. Magnus also highlights the importance of building partnerships with other service providers and engaging with the community to create meaningful change. He acknowledges the challenges of navigating politics and the need for more time to implement effective strategies. Overall, Magnus advocates for a more nuanced and collaborative approach to policing.

In this episode of the Reducing Crime podcast, host Jerry Ratcliffe interviews Lorraine Mazerolle, a professor of criminology at the University of Queensland. They discuss Mazerolle's career in criminology and her work on police and crime prevention partnerships. Mazerolle explains the importance of partnerships in sustaining long-term crime control and highlights the benefits of dyad partnerships, which involve the police and one other agency. She also discusses the role of legislation in supporting partnerships and the need for a sunset clause to ensure partnerships are regularly evaluated and refreshed. Mazerolle shares examples of successful partnerships, including a program that focuses on police engagement with schools to address truancy issues. She also discusses her current research on child exploitation and countering violent extremism.

In this episode of the Reducing Crime podcast, host Jerry Ratcliffe interviews Thomas Abt, a senior research fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Abt discusses his recent book, "Bleeding Out: The Devastating Consequences of Urban Violence--and a Bold New Plan for Peace in the Streets," and the importance of translating academic research into evidence-based policy advice. They also discuss the challenges of implementing comprehensive anti-violence plans in cities and the need for more action-oriented practitioner-researcher partnerships. Abt emphasizes the importance of focusing on solutions and problem-solving rather than winning arguments. He also discusses his future plans to continue influencing policy and working in both academia and government.

In this episode of the Reducing Crime podcast, host Jerry Ratcliffe interviews Professor Lawrence Sherman, director of the Cambridge Centre for Evidence-Based Policing at the University of Cambridge. They discuss executive police education, harm-focused victimization, and the use of algorithms in policing. Professor Sherman also talks about the police constable degree apprenticeship program and the challenges of implementing evidence-based policing in the US. He emphasizes the importance of education and the need to explain the value and legitimacy of using science in policing. Professor Sherman believes that pracademics, individuals who combine practical experience with academic knowledge, can play a crucial role in driving evidence-based policing forward.

In this episode of the Reducing Crime podcast, host Jerry Ratcliffe interviews Marcus Felson, a professor of Criminal Justice at Texas State University and the originator of the routine activities approach to crime. Felson discusses the origins and importance of the routine activities theory in crime prevention. He emphasizes the need for simplicity and clarity in criminology research and criticizes mainstream criminologists for their vague and confusing conceptualizations. Felson also discusses the practical applications of his theory, such as the design and management of the nighttime economy and the issue of outsiders camouflaging the crimes of insiders. He encourages students and practitioners to focus on narrow, practical problems and to provide useful advice rather than getting caught up in grand theories and policies.

In this episode of the Reducing Crime podcast, host Jerry Ratcliffe interviews Dr. Ella Cockbain, an Associate Professor in the Department of Security and Crime Science at University College London. They discuss the challenges of tackling human trafficking, labor exploitation, and sexual exploitation. Dr. Cockbain highlights the complexities and misconceptions surrounding trafficking, emphasizing the need for accurate definitions and evidence-based responses. She also discusses the unintended consequences of legislation and policies aimed at combating trafficking, which can inadvertently harm vulnerable populations. The conversation touches on the role of law enforcement, the importance of engaging with sex worker organizations, and the need for comprehensive research to inform effective strategies.

Sir Denis O'Connor has been in British policing for over 50 years and a leader for nearly two decades. Across a variety of roles, he has been at the center of a number of significant high-profile reviews. We discuss police careerists, the growth of oversight regimes, and the need for a plan to win. There's also some reflection on the former prevalence of violence at weddings in the east end of London.

Dr. Renee Mitchell is a sergeant in the Sacramento police department, California, and a co-founder and current president of the American Society of Evidence-Based Policing. In a wide-ranging chat, we explore the myriad ways research can help 21st century policing. We also cover her Sacramento Hot Spots Experiment, how policing research is like following the white rabbit from Alice in Wonderland, Critical Incident Stress Debriefing and its lack of evidence base, "Make it stop" policing, and the lack of science around police-involved shootings.