There is a widespread perception among state and local law enforcement executives that reported crime will increase with the adoption of the National Incident Based Reporting System (N.I.B.R.S.), largely as a result of the elimination of the hierarchy rule, and that this could represent a potential public relations problem. Proponents of N.I.B.R.S. argue that the increase in crime is merely an artifact effect from previous reporting inaccuracies. The perception of crime increasing generates fear and could have significant negative consequences on a community.

Based on your reading assignment for this week, answer the following questions:

How should state and local law enforcement executives handle this problem?

Is the potential that reported crime will increase a valid reason for not adopting N.I.B.R.S.? Explain your answer.

The technological issues of implementation aside, does N.I.B.R.S. have advantages that outweigh the concerns regarding the perceived increase in crime? What are the advantages of N.I.B.R.S. to law enforcement? How would this technology help in crime management?