In March of 2009, Hebert Research, Inc. conducted a scientific, statewide survey obtaining citizen’s opinions regarding police awareness and spending priorities as statewide budget cuts continue to take place, both at a local and statewide level.

The first question of the study asked the respondent whether they have seen or experienced increased police activity around their area. Around one-third of those surveyed indicated that they had witnessed greater police presence in the recent months.

It is clear from the publics’ responses that there is in fact an increased police traffic control, which is attributed to budget deficits at government levels that affect public safety funding. Irrespective of the economic conditions, what is particularly important at the local and state levels, regarding public safety, is the execution of police attention, in that it needs to be fair, just, and right for the citizens in our communities.

Given the current budget cuts, a second question asked whether more government revenue should be appropriated towards police attention and officers. Over two-thirds of respondents denoted that greater amounts of government funding should be allocated towards police protection and services.

A final question obtained citizens’ opinions on where police attention should be concentrated, whether exerting energy on minor traffic infractions, such as speeding tickets, or focusing attention on the reduction of serious crimes. Over 92 percent of respondents expressed firm support of police attention steering away from minor traffic infractions and focus on duty time towards more prominent, significant crimes that invoke greater threat to communities.

Jim Hebert, CEO, Hebert Research, Bellevue