How does investigative policing differ from patrol policing?

Investigative policing is distinguished from patrol policing primarily through its focus on gathering evidence and solving crimes, while patrol policing emphasizes maintaining a visible presence within the community to deter crime and promote public safety. Investigative policing involves detectives and specialized units that analyze crime scenes, collect forensic evidence, interview witnesses, and conduct in-depth inquiries to solve specific cases. This method requires a proactive approach to uncovering facts and understanding criminal behavior to ensure that offenders are identified and prosecuted.

In contrast, patrol policing is centered around the presence of officers in specific areas to prevent crime and provide immediate responses to incidents, fostering a sense of security within the community. This strategy aims to deter criminal activity through visibility and quick response rather than investigating crimes after they occur. The emphasis on gathering evidence in investigative policing provides a foundational element in solving crimes that patrol policing typically does not engage with directly.

Through this lens, option B accurately captures the fundamental difference between these two policing strategies.