DOJ Launches Law Enforcement Resource Center
Ting Shen | Bloomberg
The Justice Department launched an online portal and resource center this week that aims to improve public safety by providing law enforcement with federal reports, training, academic research, and subject-matter expert resources.
The National Law Enforcement Knowledge Lab is the department’s latest initiative to promote collaboration among the nation’s state, municipal and tribal law enforcement agencies.
Associate Attorney General (AAG) Vanita Gupta described the knowledge lab as a repository of information and best practices from federal agencies and other organizations. As some law enforcement organizations re-examine their policing, the knowledge lab aims to provide a road map to enhance reform efforts free of charge.
“Our experience has taught us that these enforcement actions—as critical as they are—cannot and will not resolve the pressing issues that our communities now face. In a nation of 18,000 law enforcement agencies, we will not enforce or litigate our way to fair policing and safe communities,” AAG Vanita Gupta noted in her remarks.
The knowledge lab will house reports from federal consent decree monitors, in addition to government reports and detailed reform plans from progressing jurisdictions. There may be occasions when Knowledge Lab consultants will assist local jurisdictions directly.
Jim Pasco, Executive Director of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), stated the knowledge lab reflects best practices expressed in conversations between law enforcement stakeholders and Justice officials last year.
“It’s not mandated, but it’s training and advice and information that will be available to anyone in the law enforcement community who asks for it,” Pasco said.
AAG Gupta pledged that the knowledge lab will not become a static website, emphasizing that it would have a game-changing impact. The Justice Department also indicated that community groups and civil rights organizations would help develop the knowledge lab and maintain access to its resources.