Boston Police Department

Background

The Boston Police Department (BPD), established on May 26, 1854, is the oldest municipal police department in the United States. Serving the city of Boston, Massachusetts, the BPD is dedicated to working in partnership with the community to fight crime, reduce fear, and improve the quality of life in Boston's neighborhoods.

Key Strategic Focus

The BPD's strategic focus centers on community policing, emphasizing trust-building and collaborative problem-solving with residents. Key objectives include:

• Reducing and Preventing Crime and Victimization: Implementing data-driven strategies to address and deter criminal activities.

• Reducing Fear of Crime: Enhancing public confidence through visible patrols and community engagement.

• Holding Offenders Accountable: Conducting thorough investigations to ensure justice.

• Effectively Managing Critical Incidents: Preparing for and responding to emergencies with coordinated efforts.

• Improving Employee Wellness and Well-being: Supporting the health and morale of department personnel.

• Improving Internal and External Communication: Ensuring transparency and effective information sharing within the department and with the public.

Financials and Funding

In the fiscal year 2025, the City of Boston's operating budget is $4.64 billion, with the BPD allocated approximately $405 million. This allocation represents a $9 million increase from the previous year. The BPD's budget is the second-largest line item in the city's budget, following the Boston Public Schools.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The BPD employs various technological platforms to enhance its operations:

• Boston Regional Intelligence Center (BRIC): Established in 2005, BRIC focuses on crime reduction and terrorism prevention through intelligence sharing among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.

Leadership Team

• Michael A. Cox: Appointed as Police Commissioner on August 15, 2022, Commissioner Cox leads the department with a focus on community policing and trust-building initiatives.

• Phillip Owens: Serving as Superintendent-in-Chief, Owens is the highest-ranking police officer in the department, responsible for developing and implementing policies to ensure effective police services.

• Robert W. Ciccolo, Jr.: As Superintendent of the Bureau of Field Services, Ciccolo oversees the implementation of community policing and the delivery of police services to the community.

• Felipe Colon: Superintendent of the Bureau of Investigative Services, Colon manages citywide investigative divisions, including major case and criminal investigation units.

• Lanita Cullinane: Leading the Bureau of Professional Development, Cullinane is responsible for training all department personnel, including student officers and specialized training programs.

• Luis Cruz: As Superintendent of the Bureau of Intelligence & Analysis, Cruz manages data fusion and intelligence sharing to support risk-based decision-making.

• Sharon Dottin: Superintendent of the Bureau of Professional Standards, Dottin ensures the maintenance of professional standards and integrity within the department.

• Lisa O'Brien: Bureau Chief of the Bureau of Administration & Technology, O'Brien oversees business, financial, and technology operations within the department.

• James Chin: Superintendent of the Bureau of Community Engagement, Chin implements community policing initiatives and strengthens relationships with community partners.

Leadership Changes

• Michael A. Cox: Appointed as Police Commissioner on August 15, 2022, succeeding acting Commissioner Gregory Long.

• Dennis White: Appointed as Commissioner on February 1, 2021, placed on leave on February 3, 2021, and terminated on June 7, 2021.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

As a municipal police department, the BPD operates within the public sector, focusing on law enforcement and community safety. Its "competitors" are other city departments vying for budget allocations and resources.

Competitor Analysis

• Boston Fire Department: Provides fire suppression and emergency medical services, often collaborating with the BPD during emergencies.

• Boston Public Health Commission: Addresses public health concerns, sometimes overlapping with BPD initiatives in community health and safety.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The BPD collaborates with various organizations to enhance its services:

• Boston Regional Intelligence Center (BRIC): Partners with local, state, and federal agencies to share intelligence and prevent crime.

• Boston Housing Authority (BHA): Works together to implement violence prevention programs and support vulnerable populations.

Operational Insights

The BPD's strategic considerations include:

• Community Engagement: Prioritizing trust-building through community policing initiatives.

• Resource Allocation: Balancing budget constraints while maintaining effective police services.

• Technological Integration: Utilizing data-driven approaches to enhance operational efficiency.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The BPD aims to:

• Enhance Community Trust: Continue implementing community policing strategies to build stronger relationships with residents.

• Optimize Resource Management: Address budgetary challenges by exploring innovative solutions to manage overtime and personnel costs.

• Leverage Technology: Expand the use of intelligence and data analysis to proactively address crime and safety concerns.

Contact Information

For more information, visit the Boston Police Department's official website.