What does "intelligence-led policing" mean?

Intelligence-led policing refers to a proactive and strategic approach to law enforcement that emphasizes the importance of data collection, analysis, and strategic information sharing. This method seeks to leverage intelligence and information to guide policing efforts, allowing law enforcement agencies to prioritize resources and interventions based on identified risks and criminal trends. By using data and analytical tools, officers are better equipped to anticipate and prevent crime rather than merely reacting to incidents after they occur.

This kind of policing improves decision-making by focusing on actionable intelligence, which can include crime forecasts, crime patterns, and information from various sources, such as community input, public records, and historical crime data. The ultimate goal is to enhance public safety by effectively addressing not only current crime rates but also improving long-term outcomes through strategic policing initiatives.