Which form of policing aims to eliminate opportunities for crime through increased presence?

Preventative patrol is a form of policing specifically designed to deter crime by increasing the visibility and presence of law enforcement in a community. The underlying principle is that when police officers are visibly active in an area, it creates a perception among potential offenders that the likelihood of getting caught is higher, thereby discouraging criminal behavior.

This approach emphasizes proactive measures, where officers patrol neighborhoods not just in response to crimes but as a way to prevent them from occurring in the first place. By maintaining a consistent presence, police are able to engage with the community, build relationships, and address any emerging issues before they escalate into more serious problems.

In contrast, while other methods like directed enforcement and proactive enforcement may also involve focused policing efforts, they often target specific problems or offenses rather than establishing a general state of deterrence through visibility. Community policing involves collaboration and problem-solving with residents, which may or may not include an increased police presence. Thus, preventative patrol stands out as the strategy specifically aimed at crime prevention through visibility.