Jack Maple

Jack Maple (1952-2001) served as a Deputy Commissioner of the New York City Police Department and became known for developing innovative crime-fighting strategies, particularly the CompStat system that revolutionized law enforcement. His 1999 book "The Crime Fighter: How You Can Make Your Community Crime Free" detailed his methods and experiences in law enforcement, drawing from his career progression from Transit Police Officer to one of the NYPD's highest-ranking officials. The book became influential in law enforcement circles and helped spread his data-driven approach to policing nationwide. Before his death in 2001, Maple worked as a consultant for police departments across the United States, implementing versions of his CompStat system. His methods and philosophy later inspired the television series "The District," with the main character being based on Maple's career and personality. After starting as a transit officer patrolling the New York City subway system in the 1980s, Maple developed his signature approach of mapping crime patterns using pins and charts, earning him the nickname "Charts" among colleagues. This analog system eventually evolved into CompStat, which used computer mapping to track crime patterns and hold precinct commanders accountable for crime in their areas.

Readers of "The Crime Fighter" emphasize Maple's straightforward writing style and practical insights into modern policing methods. Law enforcement professionals note his clear explanations of the CompStat system and data-driven approaches. What readers liked: - Personal anecdotes from his NYPD career - Detailed breakdowns of crime-fighting strategies - Balance of technical details and storytelling - Practical advice for community policing What readers disliked: - Some found the tone self-congratulatory - Technical sections challenging for non-law enforcement readers - Limited discussion of potential drawbacks to data-driven policing Amazon ratings: 4.5/5 from 89 reviews Goodreads: 4.2/5 from 156 ratings Notable reader comment: "Maple provides an insider's view of how the NYPD transformed itself through better data and accountability. Essential reading for anyone in law enforcement leadership." - Amazon reviewer Another reader noted: "The subway policing chapters feel dated, but the core principles about using data to drive decisions remain relevant."

The Crime Fighter: Putting the Bad Guys Out of Business (1999) Memoir detailing Maple's career in the NYPD and his development of data-driven policing strategies.

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