Question

What is Compstat and what is its use? How is this beneficial? How can this create problems? (three paragraphs, fives sentences minimum)

Answer 1

Compstat is a performance management system
that is used to reduce crime and achieve other
police department goals. Compstat emphasizes
information-sharing, responsibility and account-
ability, and improving effectiveness. It includes
four generally recognized core components:
(1) Timely and accurate information or
intelligence;
(2) Rapid deployment of resources;
(3) Effective tactics; and
(4) Relentless follow-up.

The Benefits of Compstat
Compstat is a performance management tool based on the goal of continuous improvement. There’s nothing mysterious about it. At its heart, Compstat is a relatively simple idea. The mission of the agency should drive Compstat, and achieve the result. It helps agencies to be innovative, test different approaches, and achieve
milestones. The most widely recognized element of
Compstat is its regularly occurring meetings
where department executives and officers dis-
cuss and analyze crime problems and the strate-
gies used to address those problems. Oftentimes,
department leaders will select commanders from
a specific geographic area to attend each Compstat
meeting.

Problems

CompStat was the driving force in reducing crime by 75% in about 20 years. Unfortunately, as with many new toys, those who used it found a way to break it. Instead of police departments developing it into a tool that could better control crime, they weaponized it. It was and is wielded as a tool of punishment, embarrassment and coercion. The foot was never taken off the gas, even in light of record drops in crime. Every week in conference rooms across the country, police officials gather for CompStat meetings. Toting binders packed with statistics, precinct commanders wait to be called on the carpet by police chiefs about what they are or are not doing to control crime. They have no idea what they will be asked or where the questions will lead. Not every commander will be called on, and stress levels are high.