Sergeant Michelle Bello
(775) 321-4944
The Research and Development Unit directly supports the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office by coordinating, researching and managing special projects or assignments. The mission of the Unit is to increase productivity and fiscal management through technology, critical problem solving and collaboration.
Research and Development encompasses the Computer Technology Unit (CTU) which is a combined unit consisting of Sheriff’s personnel and Technology Services personnel dedicated to serving the Sheriff’s Office for all of their technological needs. The CTU is the initial contact point for all computer support issues and serves more than 750 Sheriff's Office users. Additionally, CTU works with various County agencies to provide access to our information, implement multi-agency applications and troubleshoot county-wide technology issues.
Research and Development also includes the Crime Analysis Unit which supports the Area Crime Evaluation System (ACES) process. The ACES process was modeled after the Compstat Management program and provides valuable data each week.
Research and Development responsibilities include:
- Maintain the software applications used throughout the department
- Develop reports for the retrieval of information and statistics from the various databases
- Deliver tactical, strategic and administrative analysis of data, programs, technology and equipment
- Publish crime maps
- Conduct and participate in special investigations
- Review and provide recommendations for new software and/or technology
- Manage and plan the implementation of new projects as well as upgrades to existing systems
- Liaison with County Technology Services, vendors, users and a multitude of law enforcement and government entities to provide information and services
- Develop, track and implement the Sheriff's Strategic Plan
- Research and develop management training alternatives designed to enhance leadership among command staff
