As crime and technology evolve, so do the investigative tools used by law enforcement to investigate crimes. A $1 million investment proposed in
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Executive Budget for Fiscal Year 2026 would add seven civilian analyst positions to the Michigan Intelligence Operations Center (MIOC) to allow the MSP to better support investigators statewide.
The majority of crimes today include an element of technology be that a cell phone or computer, or some other device. Cell phone record analysis, used as part of the search warrant process, is a valuable investigative tool particularly in major and violent crimes.
“As technology, especially locational data, continues to advance, the demand for this type of analysis will continue to increase,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP. “Nearly everyone has access to a mobile device – literally at their fingertips, making analysis of this type of data critical to solving crimes and for trial preparation.”
Historical cell phone records consist of calls and other data transmissions made by a cell phone and stored by the wireless provider, which can be used to determine a device’s approximate location at a specific time.
“Adding technology analysts to MSP will help our law enforcement officers on the ground do their jobs and keep people safe,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “As a former prosecutor, I have seen how these positions equip our law enforcement with the tools they need to keep our communities safe, such as cell phone record analysis. This proposed investment builds on the $1.6 billion we’ve invested in public safety across six bipartisan budgets to save lives, reduce violence, and keep Michiganders safe. Let’s keep using every tool in our toolbox to invest in public safety and support the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to protect us.”
Cases processed by MSP analysts have increased from 25 in 2015 to more than 230 in 2023, which have all been limited to life-threatening felony crimes due to increased demand and limited resources. This proposed investment would add one dedicated analyst in each MSP district with the capability to support local, federal and tribal law enforcement agencies.
