It should be noted that the present analysis is
limited to a single offense type and a single set of parameters in the kernel density estimation. Further
analyses are needed for a better understanding of the
impact of the precision of address geocoding on the
estimated density of crime locations in a variety of
settings. Nevertheless, our analysis here appears to
have provided a starting point and to have suggested
a direction for future studies. By accumulating
empirical evidence along this line, we will be able to
develop practical guidelines, as well as caveats, for
legitimate and meaningful use of kernel density
estimation in the analyses of spatial patterns of crime.