MA Launches Website To Track Crime Data

According to a story reported on by News 10 Albany, the Executive Office of Safety and Security(EOPSS) launched a new website on Friday that will track crime and arrest data statewide.

The Massachusetts Crime Statistics website will hopefully promote accountability and transparency by allowing users to analyze detailed crime and arrest data from across the Commonwealth.

The grant-funded site reportedly fulfills a requirement under the criminal justice reform bill signed by Governor Baker will provide the following information:

• Options to view annual crime data statewide or by municipality
• Theme-based reports on hate crimes and other topics
• Detailed quarterly arrestee information by city or town

EOPSS has reportedly pre-populated the site with data from Massachusetts law enforcement agencies that use the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), which collectively provide policing services to more than 95% of the Commonwealth’s cities, towns, schools, and hospitals.

Officials say additional data will become available as more agencies and municipal police departments throughout the Commonwealth adopt the NIBRS system and submit regular reports.

As of now, Mass State Police are said to be in the process of transitioning to NIBRS reporting, and in the interim are making their data available to the public through an external link on the crime statistics landing page.

They reportedly expect to be fully NIBRS-compatible in December.

Secretary of Public Safety and Security Thomas Turco said, "The site...will serve as a valuable tool for researchers, municipal leaders, and residents alike.”

For more information on the story, check out News 10 Albany's website here.