The impact of strict measures as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic on the spatial pattern of the demand for police: case study Antwerp (Belgium)

Abstract COVID-19 impacts the daily lives of millions people. This radical change in our activities affected many aspects life, but acted as well a natural experiment for research into spatial distribution 911 calls. We analyse impact measures on pattern police interventions. Crime is not uniformly distributed across street segments, how does affect these patterns? To this end, Gini coefficients are calculated and proportion differences point test applied to compare similarity patterns incidents before, during, after first lockdown Antwerp, Belgium. With only essential mobility being allowed, emergency call has significantly changed during or lockdown, however, qualitative shift officer’s work may have had an effect operation Antwerp force.