CJIS Data Modernization and Data Mesh

The United States Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) is embarking on a strategic initiative to unlock the full potential of its data assets and empower informed decision-making across the organization to the benefit of our law enforcement partners. This Data Modernization Initiative will leverage a Data Mesh architectural approach, fostering a decentralized environment where individual domains own, manage, and curate their data.

FBI/CJIS is seeking a transformative approach to data management and unlocking significant benefits for a variety of stakeholders. Outcomes will include breaking down data silos and placing ownership with domain experts, while empowering data scientists and business analysts with easier access to relevant datasets, accelerating analysis and time to insights. FBI/CJIS will benefit from a data-driven culture where data is accessible, understandable, and actionable.

The FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division acts as a central hub for critical law enforcement data in the United States. FBI/CJIS maintains a vast array of resources to support investigations and promote public safety. The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) serves as a central repository for real-time information sharing on stolen property, wanted persons, and missing persons, allowing coordinated efforts across jurisdictions.

The FBI's National Threat Operations Center (NTOC) fields phone calls and electronic tips from the public. NTOC threat intake examiners rapidly evaluate each lead to determine the best course of action. For fingerprint identification, the Next Generation Identification System (NGI) offers a comprehensive database that expedites suspect identification through fingerprint analysis.

Additionally, the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program provides a national picture of crime trends by collecting and publishing data submitted by law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is a vital tool for firearms dealers to verify an individual's eligibility to purchase a firearm.

The Law Enforcement National Data Exchange (N-DEx) facilitates secure information sharing across federal, state, and local agencies, fostering collaboration in criminal justice efforts. These data capabilities and others of the CJIS Division are instrumental in supporting law enforcement and public safety initiatives throughout the country.

As part of an Agile methodology, FBI/CJIS has aligned resources and established an agile Value Stream, the Data Services Value Stream, dedicated to this Data Modernization effort. This Value Stream will bring together cross-functional teams across FBI/CJIS to ensure a smooth and collaborative implementation.