COMPSTAT

COMPSTAT provides a
multifaceted and interactive approach to crime control and quality of life
improvement through strategy development, personnel and resource management. At
biweekly meetings held at Headquarters, Boston Police Department command staff members
discuss current crime trends and patterns in each of the City’s eleven police
districts.

Attendees include BPD Command
Staff; district commanders; specialized unit commanders; representatives from support
offices; and MBTA Transit police officers. The meetings empower commanders to
address crime problems in their own districts through increased strategic
planning and resource coordination at the local level.

The presentation of crime data
analysis and geographic mapping of crime trends serves as an integral component
of the COMPSTAT meetings. The Boston Regional Intelligence Center (BRIC)
generates tables and maps that illustrate recent and long-term trends within
each district, making it possible to detect patterns and hotspots. To aid
discussion and strategy development, the BPD also uses a live mapping software
program, CrimeShow.

Through the COMPSTAT meetings,
BPD Command Staff creates best practices in Districts throughout the City. When
new trends and challenges are identified, action items are recorded for future
meetings. This process ensures the BPD continues to improve practices and works
to address the changing needs of our communities.