One of the problem-solving models popular in community oriented policing is the SARA method, which is an acronym for Scanning, Analysis, Response, Assessment. In community oriented policing or problem oriented policing, interaction and partnership with the public is crucial to achieving goals.

Consider the following:

You are the community liaison within a police department. The chief of police has asked you to solve the problem of gang activity on the west side of the city. It seems that there has been a gang actively recruiting in the area, and gang related crime has begun to rise.

Because of the department's focus on community oriented policing, your first step is to conduct a meeting of area residents and seek their input and commitment to the police efforts to stop this problem before it grows. Length 4-6 paragraphs.

(You can find some basic information on the SARA model at http://www.cj.msu.edu/~outreach/rcpi/sara.pdf)

1. For this discussion board, prepare a letter that will go to community groups requesting their attendance at a meeting to address this concern.

2. Discuss the rationale for the meeting, the needs and concerns of the community, benefits to the community for their participation, and a basic agenda for the meeting.

3. Define the problem-solving model you used and how valuable it was in resolving this situation. 4-6 paragraphs

4. Please include your references.