Model

Building a Successful Regional CGIC Model

Creating a Regional CGIC that involves multiple local, state, and federal agencies requires a structured, deliberate process that guides agencies from early planning to full operational capability. While the “Components of a Regional CGIC” section explains what must exist, the steps below explain how to build it. While a standard CGIC requires many similar steps within a single agency, a Regional CGIC requires substantially more collaboration and communication on a wider scale.

Two police officers in uniform smiling and greeting each other beside a patrol car.

Step 1: Select the Lead Agency and Coordinator

  • Choose the agency best positioned to host the Regional CGIC functions (e.g., one with a BrassTrax system, strong working relationships, or an existing CGIC.
  • Identify and appoint the Regional CGIC Coordinator early so they can guide planning and stakeholder onboarding.

Step 2: Assess Regional Readiness

  • Identify the agencies in the region that recover firearms or respond to gun-related crimes and assess the level of executive buy-in within those agencies.
  • Document what each agency currently has access to: equipment, personnel, crime scene processes, NIBIN access, analytical support, and training.
  • Identify gaps in capacity (e.g., smaller agencies lacking IBIS access or dedicated personnel)

Step 3: Formalize the Regional Partnership

  • Convene the initial stakeholder meeting.
  • Determine whether MOUs are necessary.
  • Define which services the lead agency will provide (e.g., test-fires, NIBIN entry, training, data sharing).
  • Agree on information-sharing expectations and communication channels.

Step 4: Standardize Evidence Collection & Submission

  • When possible, develop region-wide SOPs for firearm recovery, comprehensive cartridge case collection, NIBIN eligibility, test-fire procedures, DNA/fingerprint collection, and storage.
  • Train agency patrol officers, crime scene personnel, and investigators on the standardized procedures.
  • Ensure every partner agency understands timelines for NIBIN submission (ideally 24-48 hours).

Step 5: Establish a Shared Workflow

  • Agree on how NIBIN leads will be disseminated to the agencies (email, dashboards, BOLOs, compiled bulletins).
  • Define who reviews leads, who assigns follow-up, and how cases are tracked.
  • Integrate ATF eTrace, NESS, and local crime analysis platforms where possible.

Step 6: Launch Regular Regional CGIC Meetings

  • Set a schedule (usually monthly).
  • Use the meetings to review regional offenders, linked cases, and investigative barriers.
  • Require each agency to have a representative present to report new trends and investigative progress.

Step 7: Implement Training Across the Region

  • Develop modular training on CGIC topics (roll call, half day, full day).
  • Provide updated instruction on evidence recovery, investigative follow-up, legal issues, and technological tools.
  • Create onboarding packets for new agencies.

Step 8: Measure Performance and Adjust Operations

  • Track NIBIN entries, lead timeliness, number of linked cases, number of successful prosecutions, and stakeholders added.
  • Use performance data to identify bottlenecks, adjust SOP’s and refine workflows.

Step 9: Establish a Process for Stakeholder Feedback

  • Share successes to strengthen partner engagement and promote program sustainability.

When agencies work together through a Regional CGIC, the collective capacity to identify shooters, link cases, and interrupt cycles of violence becomes far greater than any single agency could achieve alone. With strong partnerships, standardized practices, and ongoing performance monitoring, regions can create a sustained and meaningful impact on gun crime.

 

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Works Cited:

[7] Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/statistical-briefing-book/offending-by-youth/faqs/qa03103