The Chicago Police Department, often shortened CPD, is the organization responsible for law enforcement in the city of Chicago.
History[]
Early Struggles and the Major Crimes Division[]
In the early 1980s, the Chicago Police Department was grappling with a significant number of unsolved cases, particularly in the Major Crimes Division. One notable figure during this time was James Doyan, a major crimes detective who found himself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of unresolved investigations. Despite his best efforts, the increasing backlog of cases led to a loss of public trust in the CPD, and the community's faith in law enforcement was at a low point.
In 1984, a pivotal moment came when Doyan's commander decided to introduce a new tool to help combat the inefficiency and disorganization that plagued the department: the DEC VAX 2500 computers with M-Class chips. Computers were installed at the office with the belief that technology could improve the organization and efficiency of police work. However, Doyan, like many of his colleagues, was initially resistant to using the new technology. The shift from traditional methods to computer-based systems was met with skepticism by many seasoned officers who were accustomed to the old ways.
While many officers remained hesitant about the new systems, Doyan's partner, however, saw the potential in the computers and quickly adapted to the change. Within just six months of utilizing the new technology, Doyan's partner was able to clear twice as many cases as anyone else in the department. His success with the technology became undeniable, and within a year, he was promoted to supervisor, overseeing his colleagues and the future integration of technology into police work.[1]