NCJ Number
213363
Date Published
2005
Length
31 pages
Annotation
This report presents best practices and offers recommendations for the future deployment of Violent Crime Impact Teams (VCIT).
Abstract
The VCIT program is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of Justice and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Its goal is to target and reduce violent crimes in identified high crime hot spots through the use of innovative strategies, analytical investigative resources, and an integrated Federal, State, and local law enforcement strategy. Ten best practices for VCIT were identified by VCIT leaders. They are: (1) setting clear goals and performance measures; (2) developing collaborative partnerships with local police; (3) targeting the worst violent offenders; (4) using the full array of intelligence assets; (5) maintaining a fluid and dynamic approach to targeting offenders and hot spots; (6) conducting proactive street enforcement with local police in targeted areas; (7) deploying resources during peak hours of criminal activity; (8) investigating sources of firearms linked to violent crimes; (9) prioritizing prosecution of defendants linked to targeted hot spots; and (10) publicizing success stories. Each of these best practices is described and recommendations for future actions are offered, which include the advice to formalize Memorandums of Agreement for State and local overtime reimbursements prior to program initiation. Other recommendations include holding annual VCIT manager’s conferences to communicate mission goals and reporting requirements and to make laptop computers available to VCIT team members. Successful VCIT investigations from around the country are highlighted and descriptions are offered of technologies that have been used to accomplish VCIT goals. Exhibits