Jack Maple (1952-2001) was a pioneering American law enforcement strategist best known for developing the CompStat data-driven policing model that revolutionized crime fighting in New York City. Born on September 23, 1952, in the Bronx, New York, Maple began his career as an officer with the New York City Transit Police in the 1970s. His unconventional, street-smart approach to policing quickly gained attention; he was known for his flashy style, including wearing pinstriped suits and a fedora, and for innovative tactics like using mugshot books disguised as novels to catch criminals. Maple's early successes in transit policing, where he targeted pickpockets and other subway criminals through targeted operations, laid the groundwork for his later contributions to broader law enforcement strategies.

In 1994, Maple joined the New York Police Department (NYPD) as a civilian advisor under Commissioner William Bratton, becoming the first holder of the newly created position of Deputy Police Commissioner for Operations and Crime Control Strategies—a role later filled by Ed Norris. There, he spearheaded the creation of CompStat (short for Computer Statistics), a system that integrated computer mapping, real-time crime data analysis, and weekly accountability meetings to identify crime patterns and deploy resources efficiently. This methodology was instrumental in the dramatic reduction of crime rates in New York City during the mid-1990s, influencing policing practices worldwide. Maple co-authored the book 'The Crime Fighter: Putting the Bad Guys Out of Business' with journalist Chris Zimmerman in 1999, chronicling his career and philosophies.

Maple's innovative ideas extended beyond policing; his life and work inspired the CBS television series 'The District,' which aired from 2000 to 2004. Despite his professional triumphs, Maple battled colon cancer in his later years. He passed away on August 4, 2001, at the age of 48, leaving a lasting legacy in modern law enforcement. His emphasis on data, accountability, and proactive strategies continues to shape police departments globally.