A process for improving dispatch of different types of law enforcement patrols (LEPs) for achieving a desired deterrent effect includes first receiving patrol route information indicating patrol routes taken by first LEPs, and then determining, as a function of a type of each of the first LEPs, a threshold level of deterrence reached for each of the patrol routes taken. Subsequently, a threshold level of deterrence desired (TLoDD) for each of the plurality of patrol routes is determined as a function of historical and/or real-time crime information. A first patrol route having a threshold level of deterrence reached (TLoDR) that is less than a TOoDD is identified and, as a function of the difference, a particular type of second LEP having a sufficient deterrent effect factor to compensate for the difference is identified. An available responding second LEP of the particular type is then identified for dispatch.