Sniffing Out Criminals

IF You Can't Confront Criminals, Drive Them To Distraction. That seems to be the theory behind a new wave of tactical tricks becoming more popular among urban cops. These "touch-free" techniques use sounds, smells and subterfuge to thwart crime and pose less risk of violence. For police departments faced with budget cuts, limited manpower and accusations of police brutality, they can be a kinder, gentler--and cheaper--way of keeping the streets safe.

--By Jeremy Caplan

--VIOLINS VS. VIOLENCE Blaring classical music chases gangs away from subway stations, parking lots and malls. Cops in Britain tried this first. But what happens if the...

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