The Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) is an independent research organization that focuses on critical issues in policing. Since its founding in 1976, PERF has identified best practices on fundamental issues such as reducing police use of force; developing community policing and problem-oriented policing; using technologies to deliver police services to the community; and evaluating crime reduction strategies.
The department's strategic plan, which was launched in 2019, aims to reduce social harms, including mental health issues, substance abuse and fear of crime
Wexler has said PERF will not "reinvent the wheel" in Atlanta, but rather will facilitate discussions between APD brass and leading experts in the field