SUNY New Paltz University Police receives certification for crime reporting program

NEW PALTZ — The University Police Department at the State University of New York at New Paltz recently earned certification from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services for participation in the New York State Incident Based Reporting program.

“As a NYSIBR-certified agency you are among the leading law enforcement agencies in New York State,” said Janet S. Whitaker, NYSIBR Program manager. “The willingness to be an early implementor of NYSIBRR clearly marks SUNY New Paltz University Police Department as one of the most progressive law enforcement agencies in New York State.”

The University Police Department was chosen by SUNY Central Administration as a pilot program six years ago. Between criminal incidents and service regulatory reports, the department writes more than 2,000 reports a year, and, in order to receive its certification, the it had to provide error-free information reporting to Albany in a period of five months.

NYSIBR analyzes data on a case-by-case basis, providing important details on each crime reported and the ability to do crime analysis.

“Participating in NYSIBR will result in better record keeping in the department and a better understanding of crime patterns,” said Richard D. Barnhart , chief of the SUNY New Paltz University Police Department. “This will dramatically improve the department’s ability to efficiently respond to crime and the needs of residents.”

The new system, replaces the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) system which was the primary source of crime data for more than 60 years.

“Technology has become law enforcement’s greatest weapon against criminals,” said Chauncey G. Parker, director of Criminal Justice and commissioner of the Division of Criminal Justice Services. “This new output of data from their information system will improve the department’s ability to identify community problems and will lead to improved public safety.”