FAQ2017-11-14T22:32:22+00:00
What is the fusion center’s Privacy Policy?2017-11-14T17:18:17+00:00

An intelligence fusion center is an effective and efficient mechanism to exchange information and intelligence, maximize resources, streamline operations, and improve the ability to fight crime and terrorism by analyzing data from a variety of sources. Today’s increased security needs not only dictate enhanced information sharing but also highlight the need to balance the sharing of information with the rights of citizens. Ethical and legal obligations compel personnel, authorized users, and participating entities to protect constitutional rights, including privacy and other civil liberties, and civil rights throughout the information sharing process. To accomplish this, appropriate privacy and civil liberties protection policies are in place.  To view the Chicago Police Department’s Crime Prevention and Information Center (CPIC) Privacy Policy click here.

What is a fusion center?2017-11-14T17:17:01+00:00

A fusion center is an actual physical structure where government, security and public safety partners collaboratively work together sharing information, developing intelligence, maximizing resources, streamlining operations and analyzing data to improve the ability to fight crime and terrorism.

Why do we need a fusion center?2017-11-14T17:07:14+00:00

September 11, 2001, illuminated the inadequacies of information and intelligence sharing efforts and practices among law enforcement agencies.  The National Criminal Intelligence Sharing Plan and fusion centers are the first crucial steps to help prevent future tragedies and to fight crime more resourcefully.

How will the fusion center assist my agency?2017-11-14T17:07:35+00:00

By managing the flow of information and turning intelligence into actionable knowledge, fusion centers support law enforcement, public safety, and the private sector.  By analyzing data from different sources, the fusion center supports efforts to address immediate or emerging threat related circumstances and events.  At the same time, it supports the implementation of risk-based, information driven prevention, response, and consequence management programs.

Who has access to fusion center information?2017-11-14T17:08:06+00:00

Individuals have rights to privacy.  Our Constitution reflects values that are deeply rooted and cherished by American culture.  The real or perceived violation of privacy or constitutional rights will not be tolerated.  Fusion centers operate in accordance with laws governing intelligence investigations, records retention, and release of information.

What will be the involvement of the private sector?2017-11-14T17:08:41+00:00

The private sector has an important role to play in the protection of our city’s critical infrastructure, as they desire to protect their assets, employees, and customers.  Additionally, they provide important sources of information as private sector security often has better observation capabilities and knowledge of the activities occurring around their local facilities and around the world.  This data will be useful to a fusion center analyst in identifying emerging trends or threats.