Mapping Crime Using Geovirtual Urban Environments

Abstract

This contribution explores the potential to apply three-dimensional geovisualization techniques to geospatial crime scene analysis. Because cartographic visualizations can be addressed as fundamental for the communication of spatial phenomena, thematic maps are widely used as a medium to present crime scene analysis results. Predominantly, maps produced by crime analysts are two-dimensional and static. However, according to defined task and analysed crime, these maps vary in subject, purpose, audience and map quality and might be difficult to comprehend – especially for decision makers who are not trained well in map reading. Therefore the main objective of this contribution is to develop a methodical framework that allows decision makers working in security agencies for an instant grasp of complex spatial information. For this purpose the paper explores innovative methods of visualizing the outcomes of geospatial crime scene analysis by combining crime data analysis with three-dimensional geovisualization techniques.