What is the primary mission of the CPD's Office of Research and Development?

The primary mission of the Chicago Police Department's Office of Research and Development focuses on implementing evidence-based practices. This approach emphasizes the importance of utilizing research and data to inform policing strategies and policies. By prioritizing evidence-based practices, the CPD aims to enhance its effectiveness in addressing various law enforcement challenges. This method ensures that strategies are grounded in reliable data, leading to better decision-making and ultimately improving public safety.

In contrast, increasing the number of officers on the street, reducing overall crime rates, and developing community outreach programs, while important aspects of policing, do not encapsulate the main focus of the Office of Research and Development. These tasks may well be a part of broader departmental goals, but the office specifically aims to leverage research as a foundation for those goals, solidifying its role in shaping effective law enforcement practices.