Almost 10 years ago, the Washington, DC, Metropolitan Police Department created several crime research specialist (CRS) positions, filled by civilians, for the purpose of providing investigative and operational support.

These positions were managed separately from the crime analysis unit, also staffed by civilians but designated for providing statistical reports, crime maps, and tactical support for district commands. Rather than repurposing their analysts for investigations and large operations, the agency started from scratch and embedded the CRSs in specialized units. Command staff at the police department realized that the increasingly digital nature of crime called for tech-savvy researchers, not more sworn officers.