Inside Our Impact – January

Over the past two decades, rapid advancements in technology have transformed every aspect of our lives—how we work, communicate, and engage with one another. Law enforcement is no exception. These innovations have revolutionized policing, presenting both opportunities and challenges. One of the most critical issues we face today is ensuring that technology is used legally, ethically, and transparently to strengthen public safety while upholding the rights of all Americans.

The National Policing Institute (NPI) is leading the way in helping law enforcement agencies navigate this complex landscape. Through the Digital Trust project, NPI provides law enforcement with the knowledge, resources, and best practices needed to build trust and maintain accountability in the digital age. This initiative is about more than just adopting new tools—it’s about ensuring that agencies use them responsibly, protecting both officers and the communities they serve.

“This project is about empowering law enforcement to use cutting-edge technology in a way that enhances public safety while also safeguarding individual rights and privacy,” said Dr. Colby Dolly, Director of Science and Innovation at NPI. “If not used responsibly, these tools erode public trust and open agencies up to legal challenges.”

Funded by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Digital Trust provides clear, objective guidance on best practices for using law enforcement technology, including body-worn cameras, gunfire detection systems, and artificial intelligence.

“Building trust between law enforcement and communities is an important part of public safety,” said Dr. Dolly. “DOJ launched this initiative to ensure agencies have the tools and resources they need to handle the complexities of modern policing technology with integrity and accountability.”

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Meet NPI Director of Science & Innovation, Dr. Colby Dolly

Dr. Colby Dolly, Director of Science & Innovation at NPI, considered law enforcement careers growing up, but undergraduate courses convinced him that it was the right career for him.

“I was fascinated and still am with the role of the police in society and the justice system,” said Dolly. “Even as I worked for a police department, I was interested in the varying perceptions of the police within the community and intrigued by how differently the role can be interpreted.”

Prior to his tenure at NPI, Dolly held leadership positions within a multinational healthcare corporation and the St. Louis County Police Department. In these capacities, Dr. Dolly’s responsibilities included the development of policies, data analytics, procedural enhancements, and facilitation of organizational transitions.

At NPI, Dolly oversees a variety of different research endeavors, including the integration of technology and analyzing the use of force. He said working for NPI was a natural fit: “It enables me to research important societal questions about the policing institution while staying connected to the profession. It is the best of both worlds.”

Of the many different projects Dolly has been involved with, NPI’s guidebook on specialized police units is one he connects with personally.

“This project allowed us to bridge the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical applications in policing and management,” Dolly said. “I take pride in how effectively we translated abstract concepts into actionable guidance that aligns with the realities of everyday law enforcement practices.”

Notably, Dr. Dolly was chosen as a participant in the prestigious 2020 LEADS Scholar Program by the National Institute of Justice. His academic background includes a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Missouri St. Louis, with a research focus on organizational change and methodological approaches. He is recognized as a Prosci® Certified Change Practitioner and holds accreditation in Lean Six Sigma methodologies.