Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the expansion of the Suffolk Crime Analysis Center, which is now three times its original size and has doubled its staff to support local police in fighting crime. The expansion was funded with nearly $1 million from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services and local law enforcement agencies. This development is part of a state-supported network aimed at reducing crime through analysis and support. Preliminary data shows a 7 percent decrease in crime on Long Island from January to September 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
According to the Governor's Office release, Governor Hochul said, "Public safety is my number one priority — and this expansion enables law enforcement to share intelligence, analysis and support to identify hotspots and crime patterns that help them work smarter." The expanded center includes upgraded technology such as a 24-foot-wide video wall and can now accommodate up to 45 personnel from various departments, including the NYPD, MTA Police, and New York Air National Guard. These agencies reported a significant decrease in crime, with shooting incidents dropping by 39 percent and injuries from gunfire down by 35 percent from 2022 to 2023.
New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, "Crime analysts play a critical role in supporting law enforcement investigations. At our Crime Analysis Centers, these professionals work with local, state and federal law enforcement personnel who share their knowledge and expertise and leverage technology to access information and data that results in a more targeted, strategic approach to solving and deterring crime. I applaud the work of these dedicated public servants, commend our partners in Suffolk County and across the state for their continued collaboration and support, and thank Governor Hochul for her investment in this vital work and commitment to keeping New Yorkers safe," in the same release. In 2024, the Suffolk Center handled 30,010 service requests, reflecting its importance in supporting 70 different law enforcement agencies.
Governor Hochul's budget includes significant funding for crime-related initiatives, such as $18 million for the Crime Analysis Center Network, $36 million for the GIVE initiative, $21 million for the SNUG Street Outreach Program, and $20 million for Project RISE. Her FY26 Executive Budget also includes an additional $13 million to establish the New York State Crime Analysis and Joint Special Operations Command Headquarters.
