Which of the following statements best describes a reactive response in policing?

A reactive response in policing is characterized primarily by responding to incidents after they have already occurred. This involves addressing reported crimes, investigating them, and taking action based on the specific incidents brought to the attention of law enforcement. The focus is on responding to calls for service and leveraging resources to resolve issues as they arise, rather than anticipating or preventing them beforehand.

The other options pertain to different approaches in law enforcement. For example, proactively preventing crime is a strategy that aims to address and eliminate the potential for crime before it happens, which is distinctly different from reacting to crimes that have already taken place. Involvement in community activities and participation in community outreach programs also highlight proactive and preventive strategies that foster relationships between law enforcement and the community, focusing more on collaboration to enhance safety and trust rather than simply reacting to crime reports.

Thus, the best description of a reactive response in policing is accurately captured by focusing on the actions taken after reported crimes.