What is the primary goal of preventative patrol?

The primary goal of preventative patrol is to increase visibility and discourage criminal activity. This approach focuses on deterring potential criminals by having officers present in areas where crimes may occur. When law enforcement officers are visible in the community, it creates a sense of security for residents and discourages criminal behavior, as potential offenders are less likely to commit crimes when they know that police are nearby.

Preventative patrol is not primarily about making arrests; rather, it emphasizes proactive engagement with the community to foster safety and trust. Gathering intelligence on criminal organizations is often a secondary goal, as is responding quickly to reported crimes; however, these actions do not encapsulate the central purpose of preventative patrol. Ultimately, the strategy is grounded in the idea that increased police presence can reduce the likelihood of crime occurring in the first place.