Recommendations for Policing Established Drug Markets

The implementation of the Philadelphia Police Department’s Kensington Bicycle Unit resulted in fewer social disorder crimes, but more drug offences in comparison to a control area. These results were expected considering the directives of the unit. Increases in violent person crimes and shootings were also observed following the introduction of the unit compared to the expected amount in the control area. This study supports past research that has documented increased violence in areas after law enforcement efforts to disrupt well-established drug markets. These findings emphasize the importance of tailoring drug enforcement efforts to address specific local concerns/factors. Such efforts should include detailed crime analyses and intelligence gathering, coupled with patrols that are designated to break up drug markets; increased workforce to support the operations; and localized support with directed patrol operations.