Philadelphia Foot Patrol Experiment
Temple University / Philadelphia Police Department · Philadelphia, USA · 2009
Summary
While car patrol studies (including Kansas City) showed limited crime effects, this experiment tested a different form: officers on foot in violent micro-locations. The results were strong: violent crime fell 23% in treated beats during the 12-week intervention period. Officers on foot develop local knowledge, make more pedestrian stops, and create visible presence that car patrols cannot replicate. The study helped distinguish which patrol strategies work in which contexts—an important nuance lost in the earlier Kansas City null result.
Research question
"Does foot patrol in high-violence areas reduce violent crime more than standard patrol?"
Methodology
Intervention
60 foot patrol officers assigned to randomly selected violent crime hot spots
Assignment
Randomized controlled trial (location)
Sample size
60 foot patrol beats (randomized)
Primary outcome
Violent crime incidents
Effect estimate
−23% violent crime in foot patrol beats vs. control beats
Decision
Philadelphia expanded foot patrol; findings cited in numerous police department strategic plans
Result
Positive
−23% violent crime in foot patrol beats vs. control beats
Evidence strength
Strong
Randomized controlled trial with large sample.
Replication status
Partially replicated
Institution
Temple University / Philadelphia Police Department
Location
Philadelphia, USA
Year
2009
Policy area
Public Safety
Mechanism
Targeting