Evaluation of the Impact of NIBIN-Driven Arrests on Violent Crime

• In Event: Uses and Impacts of Police Technologies

Abstract

Drawing on research showing that a small percentage of offenders is responsible for a disproportionate share of crime, intelligence-led policing has posited that increased focus on prolific and serious offenders presents a more efficient and effective use of police resources. Drawing on this principle, several Denver metropolitan area law enforcement agencies and the ATF received funding in 2015 from the Bureau of Justice Assistance to support ongoing efforts to establish a Crime Gun Intelligence Center and increase entry of ballistic evidence into NIBIN (National Integrated Ballistics Information Network). Using hits from NIBIN, the CGIC engages in investigative follow-up and intelligence gathering to arrest individuals linked to multiple shootings and violent offenses. The purpose of the present research is to utilize mixed effects models to evaluate the degree to which arrests based on follow-up of NIBIN hits is correlated with a substantial reduction in assaults, robberies , homicides and gang and firearm involved offenses at the micro-geographic level. Preliminary findings suggest a significant decrease in gang and firearm-related violent offenses within a 1000x1000 foot area 2-4 months following a NIBIN-related arrest. Findings and the potential for CGIC and NIBIN as intelligence-led policing tools for reducing violent crime will be discussed.

Author

• Lonnie M. Schaible, University of Colorado Denver