What statistical analysis method is often used to identify crime hotspots?

Geospatial analysis is the correct method often utilized to identify crime hotspots. This approach involves the use of geographic data and spatial statistics to visualize and analyze various crime patterns over a specific area. By mapping crime incidents and applying techniques such as kernel density estimation or heat mapping, law enforcement agencies can pinpoint areas with a high concentration of criminal activity. This information is crucial for resource allocation, preventive strategies, and community safety initiatives.

While other methods like statistical probability calculations can support crime analysis by assessing risks associated with certain factors, they do not specifically focus on the geographical aspect. Qualitative research and content analysis also serve different purposes; the former primarily gathers in-depth insights through interviews and observations, while the latter examines text or media content for trends and patterns. However, neither method directly addresses the spatial distribution of crime incidents as effectively as geospatial analysis does.