Crime Analysis Code of Ethics

Theoretically today’s professional crime analyst is expected to know the details of every crime in his or her jurisdiction, and often to predict when the next will occur. In reality, the title of crime analyst can mean different things even in the same agency. Generally, a crime analyst is one who monitors crime trends and patterns, researches and analyzes similarities and differences in crime details, and reports those findings to the appropriate personnel that can address those crimes either through deterrence or prevention. Many skills and abilities are necessary to complete the crime analysis process. Necessary skills include logic and critical thinking, research skills, organizational skills to organize facts and findings, written and oral communication skills, and computer skills. Necessary personal traits include a desire to aid in the reduction of crime through the legal and ethical examination of crime facts and data.

The professional crime analyst assists law enforcement managers in decision making, supports street officers and detectives with information helpful to their jobs, and provides service to other crime analysts and to the general public. As professional crime analysts, we commit ourselves to the following principles:

Personal Integrity

• Maintain an attitude of professionalism and integrity by striving to perform at the highest level of one’s proficiency and competency, in order to achieve the highest level of quality.
• Remain honest and never knowingly misrepresent facts.
• Accurately represent one’s own professional qualifications and abilities, and ensure that others receive due credit for their work and contributions.
• Seek and accept honest criticism for one’s work, and take personal responsibility for one’s errors.
• Treat all persons fairly regardless of age, race, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or nation of origin.
• Practice integrity and do not be unduly swayed by the demands of others.
  

Loyalty to One’s Agency

• Safeguard the privacy and confidentiality of restricted information or documents.
• Thoroughly research, analyze, prepare, and disseminate quality work products to the best of one’s ability, ensuring that all reports and documents are accurate, clear, and concise.
• Faithfully adhere to and abide by one’s departmental policies, objectives, and guidelines. Support colleagues in the execution of their lawful duties, and oppose any improper behavior, reporting it where appropriate.
  

Commitment to the Crime Analysis Profession

• Continually strive to increase the recognition of and respect for the profession by participating in professional crime analysis associations, contributing time and effort toward their goals and missions.
• Advocate professional, research-based crime analysis functions within the law enforcement environment.
• Seek training and education throughout one’s career; remain current with trends and practices in crime analysis.
• Contribute to the professional education, training, and development of other crime analysts. Share information and the results of research and development by responding to information requests, submitting information to individuals and organizations, participating in meetings, or publishing articles.
• Present methodologies, results and recommendations through fair, honest, conscientious, independent and impartial judgment.
• Exercise objectivity, impartiality, accuracy, validity and consistency in all research conducted.