Professional Summary
Laura O’Donnell is a Subject Matter Expert at Policing Lab with over 24 years of law enforcement experience, specializing in real-time crime centers, technology integration, and data-driven policing strategies. She has led large-scale operations, managed technology-driven units, and supported initiatives aimed at improving public safety outcomes and operational efficiency. Laura has extensive experience developing training programs, standard operating procedures, and implementing new technologies to support investigations and crime reduction efforts.
Key Experience
- Subject Matter Expert, Policing Lab (2023–Present)
- Leads strategic initiatives focused on advancing data-driven public safety through EPICs, supporting the integration of technology and analytics to enhance law enforcement practices.
- Commanding Officer, Detective Division Area Technology Centers – Chicago Police Department (2020–2023)
- Managed operations across multiple Area Technology Centers, overseeing digital evidence analysis and supporting efforts to improve violent crime clearance rates.
- Commanding Officer, Strategic Decision Support Center (Citywide) – Chicago Police Department (2019–2020)
- Led operations of 22 citywide real-time crime centers, managing thousands of cameras and implementing policies to support technology-driven policing strategies.
- Lieutenant, Strategic Decision Support Center – Chicago Police Department (2017–2019)
- Oversaw the implementation of a 24/7 real-time crime center, supporting situational awareness, deployment strategies, and investigative operations.
- Sergeant, Crime Control Strategies (CompStat) – Chicago Police Department (2012–2016)
- Conducted crime analysis and presented findings to leadership, supporting data-driven decision-making and accountability processes.
Education & Credentials
- M.S. in Public Safety Administration, Calumet College of St. Joseph
- B.S. in Public Safety Management, Calumet College of St. Joseph
Personal Touch
Laura enjoys spending time with friends and family and attending concerts. During the summer, she enjoys boating on the lake and playing 16” softball.
