Data quality in police work

Abstract

This chapter engages the question of data quality, that is the accuracy and reliability of data, in police work. As the police have established novel ways of using data for analytical and managerial purposes, the question of how they make sure that data-driven decisions can be trusted has been given increased practical and political attention. Based on empirical research, this chapter argues for understanding data quality in a relational fashion, as it means different things for different police tasks. Subsequently, it can be studied through the various data practices geared towards the establishment and maintenance of data quality.