Once the desired data has been acquired, it must be properly analyzed to determine if it can be helpful in successfully concluding the case at hand. Questions relating to the significance of the data must be addressed. Even if the crime, call or arrest rates at the location are higher than the rates at other similar locations, are the differences statistically significant (i.e., can the differences be due to causes other than random chance?). Similarly, are there significant statistical differences between the crime, call or arrest rates in the area around the location compared to the rates in other similar areas or to city averages?

If these questions can be answered in the affirmative, very strong evidence can be presented in support of the lawsuit. To determine statistical significance, however, requires some knowledge of basic statistics and experience in knowing what statistical tests to utilize with different kinds of data. Should tests of means or proportions be used? What level of significance should be tested for? What, in fact, even constitutes a valid comparison? Thus, data analysis can get complicated very quickly and the correct statistical techniques must be utilized to formulate valid conclusions from the data.

Crime Analysis Centerl has the expertise to address all of the questions raised above:

What are the possible valid data comparisons? For the location? For the area around the location?

What is the appropriate statistical test(s) to employ?

Are any of the differences found in the comparisons statistically significant?

How can the results be utilized in presenting a successful lawsuit on behalf of a client?