9 ways your agency benefits from NIBRS

From providing actionable intelligence to helping agencies maximize resources, here's why your agency should participate in NIBRS

Content provided by Tyler Technologies

By Skip Bland

As of January 1, 2021, federal public safety departments have been required to comply with the FBI’s National Incident Based Reporting System (NIBRS) for reporting. The FBI has encouraged state and local agencies to adopt NIBRS-compliant processes as well. While change is always challenging, here are nine reasons this transition is actually a good thing for your agency.

The FBI's Crime Data Explorer map relies on shared data collected through NIBRS. (NIBRS)

1. NIBRS reports the specific details of criminal activity

NIBRS captures up to 57 data elements for each crime, providing more context for individual crimes and better analytics for broader crime reporting.

2. NIBRS provides “actionable intelligence”

The system reports the exact location, time, and circumstances surrounding a crime. Your agency can use this data to find patterns and take preemptive action against future crime.

3. NIBRS allows agencies to maximize resources

With more precise information regarding crime, law enforcement can optimize the use of resources to fight crime most effectively.

4. NIBRS provides detailed criminal history to assist profilers

Understanding the specifics of individuals who commit certain types of crime provides insight for law enforcement solving similar crimes and preventing future crimes.

5. NIBRS serves as a worldwide repository of crime information

NIBRS data can be shared as needed to assist in the detection of violent criminal activities and trends internationally.

6. NIBRS data assists in prohibiting or allowing weapons purchases

The NICS is used to confirm that firearm customers are eligible to make a purchase by checking the individual’s criminal record.

7. NIBRS data assists agencies in determining how to staff various activities

When preparing to execute warrants or determining when and where officers patrol, agencies consult NIBRS to ensure they deploy adequate resources.

8. NIBRS includes criteria for working with other agencies

NIBRS helps agencies determine the best course of action when dealing with an individual target or case that may have implications for other agencies.

9. NIBRS compliance keeps your agency aligned FBI standards

The FBI has made nationwide implementation of NIBRS a top priority because it provides better data for discussion, planning, and informed policing.

About the author

Skip Bland brings more than 30 years of military security, law enforcement, and counterintelligence experience to his current position where he works with Federal Agencies to support their criminal justice information systems.