Turning Policing Research into Real-World Action With Carlee Ruiz

I talk a lot about crime analysis and analyzing crime data, but I realized that I’ve never actually talked to a crime analyst yet. To correct this, I’m talking with Carlee Ruiz, a former crime analyst and policing researcher, discussing how she bridges the gap between academic research and real-world law enforcement through her platform, Police Research Hub.

Carlee highlights how valuable evidence-based insights are often inaccessible or underused, and explores the growing role of data, AI, and technologies like real-time crime centers in policing. The conversation also examines the balance between anecdotal experience and empirical evidence, emphasizing that context and implementation matter. Ruiz further discusses recruitment and retention challenges, pointing to leadership and organizational culture as key drivers of officer turnover.

Carlee Ruiz is a former crime and intelligence analyst with the Modesto Police Department and now works in research and technical assistance for law enforcement agencies at RTI International. She saw firsthand that much of the research useful to officers wasn’t easily accessible, which inspired her to create a website that translates peer-reviewed studies into practical, actionable insights for policing.

Resources

• Police Research Hub

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