Madison Reporter

MADISON, Wis. – Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes has been nationally recognized for his efforts in using research and data in policing. He was formally inducted into the Evidence-Based Policing Hall of Fame this summer. The Hall honors innovative law enforcement officers who are champions in analyzing crime from a scientific perspective and using those practices to improve the criminal justice system.

“It fills me with immense gratitude and pride to be the recipient of this prestigious award. The recognition is not only a personal milestone but also a historic moment for the Madison Police Department, as it will be eternally linked with this honor,” Chief Barnes said.

“Moving forward, it becomes my duty to set a precedent, ensuring that I am but the first of many MPD officers to be acknowledged in such a remarkable manner.”

Chief Barnes joined the Madison Police Department in February 2021. Under his leadership, the Department began implementing the stratified policing model, which involves crime analysis, evidence-based practices, and problem-solving accountability. This model has revolutionized MPD's approach to significant incident management and problem-oriented policing and has strengthened the role of police commanders and crime analysts, thereby increasing accountability at all levels of the agency.

The Hall of Fame is overseen by the Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy in the Department of Criminology, Law and Society at George Mason University. Eight people nationwide are part of this year’s class.