Building Analytic Capacities in Law Enforcement

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract

Police leaders work in very dynamic environments. They face persistent problems, as well as emerging challenges that require solid evidence to help them identify “what works” programmatically, procedurally, and administratively. Ideally, police leaders compile this solid evidence base through analytics. The use of analytics is not a novel concept to policing and there have been modest gains in policy agency analytic capacities over the years. However, there are obstacles and impediments to large-scale, persistent improvements in police agency analytics. This panel brings together researchers and practitioners who are currently focused on this issue. Panelist will discuss research findings and issues regarding what these analytic functions are to law enforcement, why they are critically important, obstacles to full utilization, and promising developments in this area.

Sub Unit

• Area IV. Criminal Justice Policy and Practice / 39. Policing and Law Enforcement

Individual Presentations

• Understanding and Assessing Police Agency Analytics - Vivian Elliott, CNA

• Striving for Excellence: Police Research and Planning Units as facilitators of change - Brenda J. Bond, Suffolk University

• Creating an Analytically Driven Police Department - Nola M. Joyce, Philadelphia Police Department

Chair

• James "Chip" R. Coldren, Jr., CNA