Creating Solvability with Real-Time Crime Centers (RTCCs): Impacts on Homicide and Shooting Investigations

• In Event: Solving Gun Crimes

Abstract

Amidst recent increases in gun violence, homicide clearance rates have declined nationwide, and nonfatal shootings remain even more difficult to solve. Police departments and researchers have focused more intently on the ways by which agencies and investigators may be able to alter organizational practices and investigative techniques to solve more cases. A growing body of evidence suggests that investigators’ effort, resources, and follow-up activities can all have significant impacts on the likelihood of clearing homicides and shootings, but to date, there is limited research to explore whether RTCCs and technological advancements have similarly positive effects on these criminal investigations. The Hartford PD’s RTCC has invested in technologies and developed internal processes that strategically aim to increase investigative effectiveness, and they have placed a strong emphasis on solving homicides and shootings specifically. Given this focus, we assess whether this strategic investigative use of an RTCC improves homicide and shooting case outcomes. We analyze the effects of RTCC activities alongside the effects of inherited case characteristics, traditional investigative activities, and physical evidence collection. Finally, we discuss implications for investigations and effective RTCC deployments.

Authors

• Lisa Barao, University of Pennsylvania

• Chris Mastroianni, Hartford Police Department