Crime Analysis Unit (CAU)

Our Mission

In recent years, there has been an increase in applications and the utilization of crime mapping and analytical tools in law enforcement. The Griffith Police Department has strived to become proficient in this ever changing arena with the creation and implementation of the Crime Analysis Unit (CAU). Our goal is to analyze geographical information and identify crime trends efficiently in an effort to  allocate resources and increase public safety effectively in the Town of Griffith. 

The CAU is  composed of numerous interdepartmental as well as external collaborations that utilize various skill sets all to achieve our intended goal and engage in proactive and preventative measures against crime.

What is Crime Analysis?

A set of systematic, analytical processes directed at providing timely and pertinent information relative to crime patterns and trend correlations to assist the operational and administrative personnel in planning the deployment of resources for the prevention and suppression of criminal activities, aiding the investigative process, and increasing apprehensions and the clearance of cases.  Within this context, Crime Analysis supports a number of department functions including patrol deployment, special operations, and tactical units, investigations, planning and research, crime prevention, and administrative services (budgeting and program planning). --Steven Gottlieb et al., 1994, "Crime Analysis: From First Report To Final Arrest."

What Role Does the CAU Play in the Griffith Police Department?

The analysis performed by the Crime Analysis Unit is used for tracking current and emerging crime series in the Town . Commanders, detectives and patrol officers use these products to aid with investigations, surveillance efforts and problem solving projects. Crime bulletins and the weekly crime report are disseminated so officers can access the information regarding crime series and trends while on patrol. This immediate access to crime analysis products helps officers better focus their efforts within their beats or sectors and keeps them abreast of immediate patterns and trends.

Problem identification and analysis are also at the foundation of the Crime Analysis Unit. Long-term strategic analysis of crime issues and problems are performed by crime analysts to help supervisory staff effectively manage, allocate and deploy resources. This type of analysis also helps command staff work to identify problem addresses, ‘hot’ products, repeat offenders and crime specific hot spots.

The CAU also works closely with the Department's Police Social Worker to focus resources to individuals and families in need of assistance who may not necessarily know where to go or who to speak with.