The "Ferguson Effect" refers to the theory that increased scrutiny of police practices, particularly after high-profile incidents like the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, leads to a decline in proactive policing. This phenomenon suggests that officers may become more hesitant to engage in law enforcement activities due to fear of public backlash or legal repercussions. As a result, some argue that this hesitancy can contribute to rising crime rates, as criminals may feel emboldened by the perceived reduction in police presence. The debate surrounding the Ferguson Effect highlights the complex relationship between community relations, policing, and crime rates in urban areas.