Does Stop and Search Reduce Crime? Evidence from Street-Level Data and a Surge in Operations Following a High-Profile Crime

Abstract This paper uses a surge in stop and search operations following high-profile murder to look at their effect on recorded crime. Difference-in-difference estimates using detailed geocoded data the street-level suggest doubling trebling of number searches streets close place murder. IV effects stops crime little property crime, weapons offences violent or drug offences. Some specifications find reductions anti-social behaviour, suggesting that any are due an increased police presence streets.