Capital Region Real-Time Crime Center Receives National Recognition for Multi-Agency Collaboration and Innovation

September 18, 2024

The Capital Region Real-Time Crime Center (CRRTCC), a groundbreaking multi-agency initiative dedicated to enhancing public safety in Tallahassee and Leon County, has received national recognition for its innovative approach and exceptional achievements in crime prevention and response.

The National Real Time Crime Center Association, which has more than 300 real-time crime centers in its membership, named the CRRTCC its Center of the Year during its annual conference on Aug. 29. The award recognizes the CRRTCC as a leader among similar centers in major metropolitan areas across the country.

"No matter how much technology we add to the center, nothing happens without the skills of the analysts in the CRRTCC," said Leslie Rabon, Executive Director of the CRRTCC. "This recognition honors all their hard work and commitment to this effort. This is a true illustration of inner agency cooperation. I am proud to lead this amazing team."

Since its inception in 2023, the CRRTCC has been at the forefront of enhancing law enforcement capabilities in real-time, using technologies such as public safety cameras, license plate readers, and camera feeds to monitor priority calls for service. The rapid analysis and dissemination of critical information by the CRRTCC analysts ensure officer and community safety and facilitate swift crime-solving efforts.

Expanded personnel expertise led to significant achievements, including over 5,000 analytical assists, the recovery of 180 stolen vehicles, and the development of leads in 61% of biometric searches from February to December 2023. Building on this momentum, continued efforts from January to June 2024 contributed to 178 arrests and the recovery of 60 additional stolen vehicles.

The CRRTCC was established as a unique and resourceful partnership involving the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD), Leon County Sheriff's Office (LCSO), Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Florida State University Police Department (FSUPD), and the Florida State University College of Criminology and Criminal Justice. Operational 24/7 and staffed by highly trained analysts from each participating agency, the center utilizes advanced technology and data-driven approaches to support real-time law enforcement operations throughout Leon County.

"The Capital Region Real-Time Crime Center is a transformative initiative that brings together the expertise of multiple law enforcement agencies and academic partners to improve the safety and quality of life in our community," said Chief Lawrence Revell of the Tallahassee Police Department. "This national recognition is a testament to the hard work, collaboration and innovative spirit of everyone involved in making the CRRTCC a success."

Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil added: "This national recognition is a testament to the amazing work of the men and women of the Capital Region Real-Time Crime Center. Their contribution to public safety cannot be overstated."

One of the CRRTCC's standout features is its partnership with the Florida State University College of Criminology and Criminal Justice, which provides continuous evaluation of the center's programs and procedures to ensure they are producing their intended outcomes.

"The CRRTCC was in the idea phase just four years ago," said Thomas Blomberg, dean of FSU's College of Criminology and Criminal Justice. "A lot of hard work between our college and our law enforcement partners went into turning that idea into reality. This award is a wonderful validation of those efforts and our college's commitment to translating research into real-world benefits."

Interim Chief of Police Justin Maloy said the CRRTCC's swift success is an incredible benefit for both FSU and the broader community, and the recognition is well-deserved.

"By leveraging cutting-edge technology and fostering collaborative efforts among multiple agencies, the CRRTCC has significantly enhanced our ability to respond to and prevent crime in real-time," Maloy said. "This initiative not only enhances campus safety but also strengthens the security framework of the entire region, ensuring a safer environment for all."

"The Capital Regional Real-Time Crime Center is a tremendous public safety tool and has proven successful time and time again," said Florida Department of Law Enforcement Tallahassee Acting Special Agent in Charge Keith Wilmer. "Its success is a direct result of the hard work and collaboration each partner invests in keeping our communities safe."

The CRRTCC continues to evolve, with a strategic focus on expanding partnerships, onboarding new staff, and developing a five-year growth plan to further enhance its capabilities and impact. This national recognition is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to make Tallahassee and Leon County safer for all residents.