Can you start by describing your role as a police chief?

I’m a Police Chief (Delegado de Polícia), a role that leads the Civil Police in Brazil. This institution, established by the Federal Constitution, is responsible for investigating criminal offenses. As Police Chief, I serve as both the administrative head of the department and the lead investigator, overseeing cases and directing the actions carried out by subordinate officers.

What makes investigating drug crimes particularly challenging for the police force?

One of the biggest challenges in overall investigations, and not just drug-related cases, is the lack of a reliable, comprehensive database. We mainly rely on the police’s internal system, which includes criminal records and past police reports. However, when it comes to crucial information like a suspect’s financial history, or telephone and telematic data, especially important in drug investigations, we need court approval. Unfortunately, the judicial process is often slow, and judges are frequently reluctant to grant these requests, which makes drug investigations particularly difficult.

What challenges does your department face in collecting and analyzing data for these investigations?

The data available in our internal system doesn’t directly provide evidence for investigations. It mainly helps guide our work by giving us insight into who we’re dealing with and their surroundings, which supports the officer’s reasoning. On the other hand, data that requires judicial authorization, such as banking and telecommunications records, can provide concrete evidence of a crime, suggest who is responsible, and reveal other key details that can lead to a successful outcome.

For example, in one case, internal records indicated a suspect’s involvement in drug trafficking. During the operation, only a small number of drugs was seized. But after analyzing phone data, we uncovered extensive trafficking activity, and their bank records showed significant financial movement. This evidence demonstrated that, although the suspect was caught with a small quantity, they were a trafficker and not just a user.

What are the main data sources used by your department in drug cases?

Our main sources of data are the police’s own intelligence services (though this information can’t be used as evidence), our internal database, and records we obtain through court authorization.

From a leadership perspective, how do you ensure your department has access to the right data for investigations?

It’s not always possible to guarantee that officers have access to the necessary data, which is why many investigations end up unsuccessful.

What tools or technology platforms does your department use to manage data?

Data collected during an investigation is included in the official case file and stored for potential use in criminal proceedings. However, we don’t have a formal system for storing and managing this information for future investigations. As a result, much of the data ends up being kept in officers’ personal files.

Does bureaucracy impact the way police forces handle and process crime-related data?

Yes, especially when it comes to delays in accessing data that require judicial authorization, like lifting banking or communication secrecy. As mentioned earlier, this type of protected information can only be obtained through a court order, which creates a challenge. We first have to present preliminary evidence to justify the request, adding another layer of difficulty to the investigation.

Are there outdated systems or technologies that make it difficult for your police officers to work efficiently?

That issue doesn’t really exist because the Civil Police has never had systems or technologies designed for data collection and management in the first place.

What strategies are in place to train police officers in handling and analyzing digital evidence?

There’s no defined strategy. The Police Academy offers some courses in intelligence and technology, but they can’t reach the necessary number of officers.

How do budget constraints affect your ability to invest in better data systems?

This is a major issue. The Civil Police has no independent budget and relies on the allocations from the Public Security Secretariat. This impacts both training opportunities and the purchase of necessary equipment.

What improvements have you seen in data collection and management in recent years?

Improvements have come as a result of technological advancement, which forces the Civil Police to “catch up” with emerging challenges.

What improvements would you like to see in the way data is managed and used in drug investigations?

I’d like to see the creation of a national database that includes information like individuals’ criminal records, fingerprint and facial identification, along with easier access to confidential data. This wouldn’t mean eliminating privacy protections but rather ensuring quicker responses from the Judiciary when access is legally justified.

How do you see the future of data-driven drug investigations evolving in Brazil?

All investigations increasingly depend on data. There’s a growing need for the police to improve their ability to obtain and analyze financial, accounting, and telecommunication data.

What advice would you give to other law enforcement agencies facing data challenges?

Invest in specialized training in data acquisition and analysis.

How does organized crime operate in your region, and in what ways could enhanced datasets help your department connect the dots more effectively—such as identifying gang profiles, trafficking routes, or crime hotspots?

The Civil Police has regional intelligence units that collect data and information on identified criminal organizations. However, due to a shortage of personnel, which affects the entire institution, this work doesn’t generate enough information and data.