Membership Award
The IACA Membership Award was created to honor ANY individual who has made an exceptional contribution to the field of crime and/or intelligence analysis in their unit, agency or community; or exceptional contributions to the IACA in particular.
IACA members will be the deciding vote on the recipient of the award! This is a great way to recognize ANYBODY who has made great contributions to our profession and/or made our Association better and stronger by his or her efforts.
Nominees are listed in alphabetical order by last name. Voting is open to IACA members from April 27-May 27, 2026.
Nominees
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BENJAMIN HALLMARK
West Sector Crime Prevention Officer
Evansville Police Department (IN)
Officer Benjamin Hallmark is being nominated for his exceptional innovation, initiative, and impact on the Evansville Police Departments Crime Prevention Unit for the creation of a comprehensive crime analysis platform know as the RTCC (Real Time Crime Center). Recognizing the limitations of working across multiple disconnected systems, Officer Hallmark independently learned how to code and developed a centralized website that seamlessly integrates data from various departmental databases into one unified, user-friendly interface. This RTCC is in the beginning stages of integration within the Crime Prevention Unit and has significantly enhanced operational efficiency by allowing officers to quickly access, interpret, and act on critical information in real time. More importantly, the platform leverages data in a way that supports proactive policing, identifying patterns, trends, and emerging hotspots to help predict and prevent criminal activity before it occurs. It also has allowed us to integrate cameras from various businesses to monitor, or look back on if/ when a crime happens. Officer Hallmark’s forward-thinking approach has not only improved day-to-day decision-making but has also strengthened the Crime Prevention Units ability to deploy resources strategically and effectively. His work demonstrates a rare combination of initiative, technical skill, problem-solving, and dedication to public safety. Through this innovation, Officer Hallmark has set a new standard for data-driven policing and exemplifies the highest ideals of service, ingenuity, and commitment to the community.
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Officer Ben Hallmark has demonstrated exceptional initiative, leadership, and innovation in developing and establishing a Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) for the Evansville Police Department. While the RTCC had long been a goal for the department, limitations in vision, staffing, and funding had prevented it from becoming a reality. Through determination and self-motivation, Officer Hallmark turned that vision into a functioning and impactful program. Assigned to the Crime Prevention Unit and serving as a member of the SWAT Team and a defensive tactics instructor, Officer Hallmark is widely regarded as a problem solver and a trusted resource among his peers. Since transitioning to the Crime Prevention Unit in mid-2024, he has focused heavily on implementing data-driven policing strategies aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing officer safety, and preventing crime before it occurs. Recognizing the challenges officers face when navigating multiple disconnected systems such as CAD, RMS, FLOCK, and other investigative platforms, Officer Hallmark independently taught himself computer programming using Python. Through extensive trial and error, he developed a comprehensive program that consolidates critical information into a single, user-friendly platform. This system provides real-time insights into crime hotspots, repeat call locations, individuals associated with addresses and vehicles, narcotics activity, and more, eliminating the need for officers to manually compile data from multiple sources. In addition to data integration, Officer Hallmark proactively built partnerships with local businesses and community members to expand access to private surveillance cameras. With owner consent, these cameras were mapped and integrated into the RTCC platform, allowing officers to quickly access live video feeds. This capability has significantly enhanced situational awareness, improved officer safety, and, in some cases, reduced the need for in-person police response. One notable example of the program’s effectiveness involved a shots-fired investigation at a local housing facility. Due to Officer Hallmark’s established relationship with the property and access to its surveillance system, detectives were able to rapidly review footage, identify a suspect, secure an arrest warrant, and safely take the offender into custody within 24 hours. This outcome highlights the real-world impact of his work and the value of proactive community partnerships. Officer Hallmark has presented the RTCC program to department leadership, including the Chief of Police, receiving widespread recognition for its effectiveness and innovation. Comparable systems often require significant financial investment, frequently costing tens of thousands of dollars. Through his initiative, Officer Hallmark delivered a cost-effective solution that is already producing measurable results and will continue to benefit the department and community moving forward. Beyond his technical accomplishments, Officer Hallmark is known for his strong character, work ethic, and commitment to service. He consistently dedicates both on-duty and personal time to improving the department’s capabilities and enhancing public safety. He is deeply committed to the community he serves and is a highly respected member of the Crime Prevention Unit. Officer Hallmark’s vision, dedication, and selfless service make him exceptionally deserving of this award.
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CARLY KAKIS
Crime Analyst
Mountain View PD (CA)
I would like to nominate Carly Kakis of the Mountain View Police Department for the IACA Membership Award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the field of crime analysis through mentorship, professional development, and her commitment to supporting analysts across agencies. My first interaction with Carly was when she served on the oral board during my interview process for my current position as a Crime Analyst. From the moment I sat down, she created an encouraging and welcoming environment that immediately reflected her passion for supporting new analysts entering the profession. That encouragement did not end when the interview process was over. I currently serve as the first Crime Analyst in my agency’s history, and I also entered the role as a brand-new analyst to the profession. This meant navigating both the challenges of learning the field while simultaneously building a crime analysis program where one had not previously existed. Carly, who works for a different agency and had no obligation to do so, voluntarily stepped in as a mentor and guide as I began building this role from the ground up. On a consistent basis, often spending an hour or more each week, she makes herself available to answer questions, offer guidance on best practices, and assist with technical challenges, particularly related to ArcGIS and crime analysis workflows. Her willingness to invest this time has provided invaluable support as I have developed both my analytical skills and the structure of the position within my department. Beyond technical assistance, Carly provides something equally important to analysts early in their careers: a trusted and experienced voice. She listens when I have questions, helps troubleshoot when I encounter obstacles, and offers perspective when frustrations arise. Her mentorship has been instrumental in helping me build confidence, strengthen my analytical practices, and successfully establish the crime analysis function within my agency. What makes Carly’s mentorship especially meaningful is that it extends beyond my experience alone. I am also aware that she has taken similar initiative within her own agency by mentoring a colleague in records who expressed an interest in crime analysis. By taking this colleague under her wing, Carly is actively helping cultivate the next generation of analysts and expanding awareness of the profession. Carly’s willingness to invest her time and knowledge into others, both within her agency and across agencies, embodies the collaborative spirit that strengthens the crime analysis profession. Her mentorship directly contributes to the growth, confidence, and success of emerging analysts, and her generosity with her time and expertise demonstrates the very best of what the IACA community represents. For these reasons, I am honored to nominate Carly Kakis for the IACA Membership Award.
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YURII KRUTIK
Deputy Chief of the Department - Chief of the Criminal Analysis Unit
Administration of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine
A visionary leader, Yurii Krutik uniquely bridges the gap between frontline practical experience and high-level scholarship, fostering international collaboration and elevating the standard of the analytical profession globally. It is a distinct honor to nominate Yurii Krutik for the IACA Membership Award. This nomination recognizes his outstanding leadership in advancing criminal analysis, his commitment to implementing cutting-edge international standards, and his unprecedented application of analytical tools amidst contemporary security challenges and the armed aggression against Ukraine.
Professional Background and Institutional Development
Colonel Yurii Krutik serves as the Deputy Head of Directorate – Chief of the Criminal Analysis Department within the Information and Analytical Support and Criminal Analysis Directorate of the Operational-Search Activity Department of the Administration State Border Guard Service of Ukraine. With over 18 years of analytical experience, Colonel Krutik has progressed through every stage of professional development, gaining a comprehensive understanding of both the operational and analytical components of law enforcement. He is a primary architect in integrating the National Intelligence Model (NIM) into the daily operations of the Service. His initiative to expand the use of state and commercial registries has elevated the effectiveness of analytical work to a fundamentally new level.
Criminal Analysis in Wartime: Protecting National and Global Security
Faced with the full-scale armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, Yurii Krutik adapted analytical tools to meet unique wartime challenges. His efforts include: identifying war criminals and individuals involved in the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children; tracing prisoners of war (POWs) to facilitate their subsequent exchange; coordinating data collection and verification regarding the movement of enemy troops and equipment, directly enhancing the efficiency of defense measures; driving international sanctions impact. A stellar example of his analytical work was an operation that halted the supply of 3,000 Chinese "buggy-style" ATVs to the Russian Ministry of Defense. The evidence gathered led to the termination of the contract, the criminal prosecution of the company owner in the United States, and the designation of the manufacturing company as an international sponsor of war.
International Cooperation and High-Profile Investigations
Yurii has consistently worked to integrate Ukrainian analysts into the global community. He has been an active participant in IACA conferences since 2023, is a graduate of the International Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA), and has studied advanced practices at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. A landmark achievement in international crime investigation was his role in solving the high-profile case involving the theft of 17 priceless masterpieces from the Castelvecchio Museum in Italy (featured in the 2020 documentary Verona Treasures). Yurii’s analytical work mapped the criminal network’s key links and located the stolen paintings within Ukraine. Notably, this operation had a significant diplomatic impact, cited as a key factor that accelerated Italy’s signing of the visa-free travel agreement with Ukraine. Furthermore, he is an active contributor to drafting national legislation for the ratification of the U.S.-Ukraine Data Exchange Agreement, implementing global aviation security standards through API/PNR information processing.
Academic Contribution and Future Vision
In addition to his practical achievements, Yurii Krutik significantly contributes to the field of security science as a PhD in Public Administration. He teaches at leading higher education institutions and has authored numerous scientific publications and fundamental textbooks on criminal analysis. His educational work is dedicated to training a new generation of Ukrainian analysts capable of operating at the highest international standards. Currently, Yurii is a key visionary for strategic change in the law enforcement sector, focusing on: Innovative Integration: developing a unified inter-agency analytical system for Ukrainian law enforcement utilizing Artificial Intelligence; Methodological Transformation: shifting from traditional data collection to an intelligence-led decision-making model; Digital Transformation: creating an ecosystem where automation and deep analytics form the bedrock of national security.
Personal Qualities
Beyond his professional accolades, Yurii is a devoted father of four. His ability to balance the immense demands of high-level government service during wartime with strong family values is a testament to his moral character, resilience, and profound sense of responsibility.
Conclusion
The work of Yurii Krutik is strategic in nature and directed toward the fundamental development of criminal analysis as an institution. Given his high level of professionalism, innovative approach, and the unprecedented scale of his achievements, he is an exceptionally worthy candidate for the IACA Membership Award.
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LASISI ABIOLA MONSURU
Cybercrime Investigator/Analyst
Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center
Microsoft reports a case of Phishing as a service to United States Secret Services who in turn forward the complaint to the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center, RaccoonO365 (often referred to in the context of "racoon365") was a prominent Phishing-as-a-Service (PaaS) platform specifically designed to steal Microsoft 365 credentials and bypass multi-factor authentication. The phishing kits included fraudulent emails and Microsoft-branded templates, along with tools capable of sending massive volumes of phishing emails ”up to 9,000 per day” to harvest credentials. Over its lifespan, the service was used to send hundreds of millions of phishing emails, with at least 100-200 subscriptions generating over $100,000 in cryptocurrency payments. In November 2025, the nominees (Lasisi Abiola Monsuru) who is an analyst with the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Center was a key player in the team that investigate and successfully take down of the phishing kits and also arrested the master mind In December 2025, Okitipi Samuel (also known as "RaccoonO365" and "Moses Felix") among other names, he was identified and indicted as the principal suspect and developer of the phishing infrastructure. The nominees who also won the best cybercrime investigator with the Nigeria police Force National Cybercrime Center unravel the mystery behind the crime and link cryptocurrency wallets to the suspect, which led to his arrest at his hideout in Benin City, Edo State Nigeria. The operation earned a the suspect an estimated $100,000+ in cryptocurrency payments, with subscription prices ranging from $355 for 30 days to $999 for 90 days. The phishing links were sold primarily through a Telegram channel belonging to the suspect, and also on the dark web, The investigation revealed that the phishing infrastructure was quite sophisticated, utilizing Captcha and other anti-bot technologies to hide its activities from security researchers. Moreso, the Nominee is a well known capacity builder who have impacted law enforcement by lecturing/tutoring law enforcement officers on cybercrime investigation, and CDR analysis, among others. He recently in March 2026 facilitated a training for Law enforcement in South Nigeria on cybercrime crime investigation and cyber enabled crimes.
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ANTHONY (TONY) V. SCAFIDE
Senior Crime Analyst, Operational Intelligence Division
Montgomery County Police Department
Tony Scafide continues to excel in his role as a senior crime analyst in both the Major Crimes Division and the Crime Analysis Unit. He is regularly complimented by his various chains of command, and rightly so. He is always at the top of his game, his crime analysis expertise is clear to all his colleagues, his supervisory chain, all the detectives and officers he supports, the State Attorney’s Office, and other sister agencies. He is regularly sought out for cell phone analysis, NIBIN analysis, and other large scale link analysis projects. He is a great verbal communicator, and his written products are flawless. He remains a “go-to” guy for practically the entire department. Tony is a complete team player and regularly fills in for his chain of command in Crime Analysis, when needed for administrative duties. He also continues (as he has for the past 5 months) to wear two hats as a senior analyst, as well as supporting the 6th District for their tactical and operational analytic needs, until a new analyst can be hired. He is regularly complimented by that district chain of command on his responsiveness and timely work products. As a senior crime analyst, Tony also fills a mentoring role in his unit. His extensive experience in the field, his understanding of sound methodology and practices, his work ethic, and his naturally curious mind, coupled with a great deal of tech savvy, all lend themselves to his being a very practical mentor. This has been shown with his fellow analysts more junior to him, as well as college interns that we have taken on. But on top of all these skills, he is also completely approachable and easy-going, never stand-offish or elitist in any way. On top of all that, he maintains various certified levels of professional expertise, continues his analytical education, and is a published author in the field. Tony is the complete package for what our unit needs as a senior crime analyst, as well as what his supervisors need to depend on!
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Please note that only active IACA Members may vote for this award.
The voting period will be open April 27 - May 27, 2026. The winner will be announced at the Annual Conference.
If you have questions or concerns, please email [email protected].
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