Data Tells the Truth: Robert Martinez on the Power of Data in Modern Policing

Embracing data in policing has transformed every aspect of the NYPD's operations, from fleet management to emergency response, improving efficiency and enhancing safety.  In my 36 and a half years with the NYPD, one lesson stood out: data tells the truth. 

When I first joined the service, data collection was rudimentary, relying on paper records and manual entry, both of which were prone to errors and inconsistencies. But as technology evolved, so did our capacity to collect, analyze, and act on data. The introduction of GPS and telematics in our fleet marked a significant shift.

Managing the largest police fleet in the U.S.—over 10,000 vehicles, 13 shops, and an $80 million budget—requires precise coordination. GPS technology has allowed us to monitor vehicle locations, speeds, and maintenance needs in real-time. This data has been crucial in optimizing patrol routes, reducing fuel consumption, and improving dispatch efficiency. For example, during city-wide emergencies, we can quickly deploy the nearest available units, cutting response times significantly.

A particular example of the importance of controlled deployment occurred during a subway bombing in New York City. Due to officers self-deploying, 450 vehicles converged within a mile of the incident, creating severe congestion. This over-response posed two critical risks: a potential secondary device could have harmed many officers and civilians, and the logjam of vehicles would have delayed redeployment if officers were needed elsewhere. This incident highlighted the necessity of a data-driven approach to manage vehicle deployment, ensuring both the safety of personnel and the efficiency of operations.

Data has also been vital in crime prevention and investigation. The CompStat program, introduced by Bill Bratton and Jack Maple, revolutionized our approach to analyzing crime data. By breaking down statistics into 28-day cycles, we held precinct commanders accountable for crime rates in their areas.

Inspired by CompStat, we developed what I called "FleetStat" for fleet management. Each week, we brought in representatives from different districts, each comprising five shops, to analyze their data. We focused on key issues such as vehicles being out of service, reasons for downtime, and strategies for improving efficiency. One specific area where this was particularly effective was fleet maintenance. For example, if a precinct only has 15 vehicles and half of them are out for service, their ability to respond to 911 calls is significantly impacted. By gaining these insights in advance, we could reallocate and loan vehicles, prioritize repairs, and ensure critical vehicles were back in service quickly. 

Additionally, we analyzed the life cycle of each vehicle by looking at factors like age, maintenance costs, and usage patterns. This data-driven approach allowed us to make informed decisions about when to replace or retire vehicles, ensuring that the city continued to receive reliable service despite any vehicle downtime. It also helped us allocate funds appropriately for repairs or replacements, maintaining an efficient and dependable fleet.

Data has been instrumental in transforming NYPD operations, from fleet management to crime prevention. By embracing data-driven decision-making, we improved efficiency, enhanced safety, and ensured that resources were allocated where they were needed most. As technology continues to evolve, the power of data will only grow, providing even greater opportunities to enhance public safety and operational effectiveness.

For any police department looking to leverage data, my advice is simple: start with the basics, invest in the right technology, and ensure your data is accurate and reliable. Data tells the truth, and in policing, the truth is invaluable.

For more information on how data intelligence can help optimize your fleet, visit: https://www.geotab.com/industries/police-first-responders-fleet/