Mapping Crime, Solving Cases: The Essential Work of FCPD’s Crime Analysts
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Fairfax County, VA— Since February of 2000, the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) has relied on Crime Analysts to support our efforts by turning data into actionable intelligence. Over the years, this role has evolved into an essential part of modern-day policing. Today, FCPD employs 16 Crime Analysts—eight assigned to district stations and another eight dedicated to specialized units.
What Type of Training and Expertise Do Crime Analysts Undergo?
Crime Analysts undergo rigorous training to excel in their field. To qualify, they must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year institution with coursework in statistics and/or research methodology. Once hired, they receive hands-on training, shadowing experienced analysts to learn the intricacies of their role. Additionally, they become proficient in FCPD’s Records Management System and analytics software, which they use to develop reports and visualizations.
What Does a Crime Analyst Do?
Each day, Crime Analysts engage in a variety of critical tasks that help detectives, officers, and commanders make informed decisions. Their responsibilities include:
- Reviewing police reports to identify emerging trends,
- Analyzing phone records and other data to support active investigations,
- Examining bulletins from the region to identify connections between cases,
- Preparing commanders for weekly crime meetings with the Chief of Police,
- Creating maps and data visualizations to illustrate crime patterns,
- Collaborating with officers and detectives to connect cases and reduce crime,
- Sharing intelligence with analysts from neighboring jurisdictions,
- And answering community questions using data-informed insights.
Why Are Crime Analysts Important?
Crime Analysts are a vital part of the FCPD’s mission. They don’t just analyze data—they transform complex information into clear, actionable insights. Their work helps guide patrol officers with enforcement strategies that prevent and combat crime, while also assisting detectives in solving cases. By connecting the dots between incidents, Crime Analysts help bring clarity to the chaos of large amounts of data, ultimately contributing to a safer community in Fairfax County.
Interested in becoming a Crime Analyst? Visit Fairfax County’s Career Pages for future vacancies.
Register your camera with Connect Fairfax County to help FCPD solve crimes, locate missing people, and support investigations. For more ways to stay connected, please read our blog and follow us on X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.
