Marietta strategically targeting areas with resources is aimed at fighting crime where it is most effective - before it starts. M-STAR is unique because it incorporates 2 proven policing strategies: criminal statistical analysis and neighborhood policing. This 2-pronged approach unites the resources of identifying the root causes of certain crimes with a neighborhood teamwork strategy to eradicate those roots. This "best of both worlds" course has established Marietta as a pilot program for others to study and emulate.

How it Works

The city is divided into 4 zones headed by non-rotating majors and assigned police staff who bring commitment and continuity to their zones. Together with the residents and businesses, the police department identifies problem areas and trends in these areas and works together to resolve them. It is customary to see crime rate statistics rise during this early period as more crimes are reported and examined. From that important point, work begins on removing the crimes. Because crime affects all of us, it is the business not only of the police department, but all city of Marietta departments to come together to make this program work. The combined commitment of the entire community guarantees the success of the M-STAR program.

M-STAR Components

Two components make up the Marietta Police Department's M-STAR program:

Zone Management Teams

The zone management teams include police personnel and citizens. Members are responsible for identifying problems in their zones, coming up with solutions for problems and constantly following up on them. Each zone management team includes 10 police officers and 3 to 5  citizens that live or have a business in that zone. Each team includes:

• 1 major (zone management team commander)
• 1 lieutenant
• 2 sergeants
• 6 patrol officers

The patrol officers include:

• 1 from Detectives
• 1 from the Community Response Unit
• 1 from either the Selected Traffic Enforcement Program or the Crime Intervention Unit
• 1 from each shift in Uniform Patrol who is permanently assigned to that zone

Zone management teams meet quarterly or more as needed.

M-STAR Meetings

M-STAR meetings are held monthly to report efforts being made, identify problems and concerns, and develop and report strategies. The zone management team commander is responsible for their respective zone.