Implementing and Evaluating Place Network Investigations (PNI) Violence Reduction Strategies in Six Jurisdictions

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to implement and evaluate Place Network Investigations (PNI), a promising violence reduction strategy in six police jurisdictions (Baton Rouge, LA; Denver, CO; Harris County, TX; Las Vegas, NV; Tucson, AZ; and Philadelphia, PA). In addition to providing local technical assistance and training for participating agencies, this project is designed to build the evidence base for violence reduction strategies through process and outcome evaluations. We will specifically evaluate how these programs are implemented to develop tools to assist other agencies in implementing PNI strategies. This process evaluation will include an assessment of agency resources, help identify potential partnerships between the police agency and other city and county services, and guide the creation of a multiagency PNI Intervention Board to direct PNI resources and efforts. We will assess the impact of PNI on violent crime involving the use of a firearm (e.g., homicides, robberies, aggravated assaults) in target locations using an outcome evaluation