SECTION 1: Name

The name of the Association shall be Northwest Regional Crime Analyst Network (NORCAN).

SECTION 2: Purpose

The purpose of the Northwest Regional Crime Analyst Network is to provide a regional organization for law enforcement professionals to share crime analysis information, promote the field of crime analysis, and enhance its development and usage as a law enforcement tool. 

The functions of the Northwest Regional Crime Analyst Network are: 

1. To encourage liaison between and association with other crime analysts and law enforcement professionals in the field of crime analysis. 

2. To provide education in the areas of crime analysis theory and practice. 

3. To advocate crime analysis as a professional field. 

4. To support high standards for professionalism, education, and achievement within fields of crime and intelligence analysis. 

SECTION 1: Non-Discrimination

NORCAN does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, and non-disqualifying mental or physical disability or veterans' status.

SECTION 2: Membership Types (Amended 2026 - Adopted January 2027)

A. Definitions

1. For the purposes of membership, the “Incorporated Region” will include the states of Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. 

2. A CJIS certified employee is defined as an individual who has been vetted and authorized to access sensitive criminal justice information under FBI security standards.

3. A temporary employee is defined as one who is working in a contract or position that is 6 months or less.

B. Full Membership is available to individuals who are employed with an agency operating within the incorporated region and are full-time, CJIS certified employees of a criminal justice agency. Members are required to provide and maintain proof of employment and CJIS certification. Full members have the following privileges:

1. To vote for elected positions and any other matter that may require a vote, such as revisions to by-laws, expenditures outside of the regular course of business, training selection, etc.

2. To run for a NORCAN Executive Board position during elections.

3. To serve on a NORCAN committee under the direction of the Executive Board.

4. To attend all NORCAN membership meetings.

5. To attend free and/or discounted training opportunities.

6. To have access to the NORCAN Listserv, Newsletter, and Membership Directory.

7. To have access to publications, research, or educational materials produced by NORCAN.

C. Associate CJIS Membership is available to individuals who are working outside of the incorporated region and are CJIS certified employees of a criminal justice agency. Associate memberships do not have voting privileges for Association business and cannot serve on the Executive Board. Members are required to provide and maintain proof of CJIS certification. Associate members have the following privileges:

1. To serve on a NORCAN committee under the direction of the Executive Board. 8

2. To attend all NORCAN membership meetings.

3. To attend free and/or discounted training opportunities.

4. To have access to the NORCAN Listserv, Newsletter, and Membership Directory.

5. To have access to publications, research, or educational materials produced by NORCAN.

D. Associate Private Sector Membership is available to individuals who are working for a private company or in higher education programs related to criminal justice. Associate memberships do not have voting privileges for Association business and cannot serve on the Executive Board. Associate members have the following privileges:

1. To serve on a NORCAN committee under the direction of the Executive Board.

2. To attend all NORCAN membership meetings.

3. To attend free and/or discounted training opportunities.

4. To have access to the NORCAN Listserv, Newsletter, and Membership Directory.

5. To have access to publications, research, or educational materials produced by NORCAN.

E. Membership Ineligibility

1. Individuals who are not eligible for membership include students, graduates, temporary employees, and those who are not currently working in criminal justice. Individuals who are not eligible to have membership have the following privileges:

i. To have the opportunity to attend training that is open to the public.

ii. To have access to the NORCAN Newsletter.   

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SECTION 3: Application for Membership

Application for membership in NORCAN can be made by submitting the application paperwork to the office of the VP of Membership along with all applicable dues and fees. The VP of Membership will review all membership applications to maintain the Association's professional standards. The Executive Board (Board) has final approval for membership. This process will be completed in a timely manner. 

SECTION 4: Status of Membership 

A. To be considered a member in good standing of NORCAN, one must have all dues and fees paid and current by the testimony of the VP of Finance. Members will remain in good standing for up to 3 months after their renewal date. 

B. Members are required to provide proof of employment for new registrations and any time the member's employment agency changes. Should a member's employer change before their renewal date, their membership type will be updated according to Article II Section 2. (Amended 2026)

C. The Board may censure, suspend, or expel a member from NORCAN for unethical and/or law-breaking behavior after an investigation of the violation.

D. Any member who violates any rule, regulation, article or by-law established by the Association, the Board, or any standing committee may be subject to discipline and may be considered not in good standing as determined by the Board. Members can appeal the Board’s decision by requesting a review by a Membership Committee which must be formed by the Board as needed. Any Membership Committee must have at least three (3) members and will report to the Vice President of Membership. Board members are not eligible to serve on any Membership Committee. Decisions by a Membership Committee require a majority vote of its members. 

SECTION 1: The Executive Board

The Executive Board (Board) of the Northwest Regional Crime Analyst Network shall be composed of a President, a Vice President of Training & Development, a Vice President of Membership, a Vice President of Communication, and a Vice President of Finance. The Past President may sit on the Board in an advisory (non-voting) role if they continue to be a full member in good standing (Amended 2026).

SECTION 2: Eligibility

Board members must maintain Full Membership status in NORCAN. No member may hold more than one position at the same time. No more than two Board positions shall be held by members of the same agency at any one time.

SECTION 3: Powers

A. The following powers are granted to the officers of the Association’s Board: (Amended 2026)

1. Oversight and administration over the various functions, benefits, and operations of NORCAN.

2. Execution of administrative tasks and expenditures of funds necessary to carry out the projects and priorities of NORCAN, as directly by the membership or by general consent to the proposals of the Board. 

3. Conduct investigations into alleged ethics violations.

4. Exercise all powers necessary for officers to fulfill their duties and responsibilities as outlined in Article III, Section 4.

SECTION 4: Duties and Responsibilities (Amended 2026)

A. The President has the following duties and responsibilities:

1. To provide overall leadership, direction, and oversight to ensure the fulfillment of the Association's mission, goals, and strategic priorities.

2. To chair all meetings of the Board and the membership ensuring orderly procedure, compliance with governing documents, and effective decision-making. 

3. To ensure that the Association’s programs, committees, and initiatives are effectively administered and aligned with established bylaws and strategic plans.

4. To act as the primary representative and spokesperson of the Association in matters involving external partners, agencies, academic institutions, and the broader crime analysis community. 

5. To provide guidance and oversight to Board members, committees, and volunteers, ensuring coordination, accountability, and adherence to the Association’s objectives and ethical standards.  

6. To oversee the preparation and presentation of an annual report to the membership and Board, summarizing the Association’s activities, accomplishments, financial status, and progress toward strategic goals.  

7. To temporarily assume or delegate the duties of any Board member who resigns, is removed, or is otherwise unable to fulfill their responsibilities, until the Board appoints or elects a successor in accordance with these bylaws.  

B. The Vice President of Training & Development has the following duties and responsibilities:

1. To develop and maintain training and professional development strategy consistent with the mission of the Association.

2. To oversee the creation, implementation, and evaluation of all training courses and certification developed by the Association.

3. To recruit, coordinate, and support qualified instructors and subject matter experts to ensure high-quality delivery of training .

4. To establish and maintain collaborative relationships with agencies, academic institutions, and professional organizations to advance training opportunities and enhance the Association’s reach.

5. To ensure all training programs adhere to professional standards, ethical guidelines, and competency requirements relevant to the field of crime analysis.

6. To perform all other duties assigned by the President 

C. The Vice President of Membership has the following duties and responsibilities:

1. To manage all aspects of membership enrollment, renewals, status changes, and eligibility in accordance with the Association’s bylaws and policies. 

2. To ensure the proper maintenance, security, and accuracy of membership databases and records, including contact information, membership categories, and standing.  

3. To develop and implement strategies to recruit new members, retain existing members, and promote engagement within the crime analysis community.  

4. To provide membership-related information, notices, and updates to the membership in coordination with the VP of Communications and other officers as appropriate.

5. To oversee processes that ensure members receive appropriate access to training, resources, events, and other benefits offered by the Association.  

6. To prepare and present regular membership reports to the Board, including membership totals, trends, and notable changes. 

7. To ensure that membership information required for elections, notices, or official actions is accurate and available in accordance with the bylaws.  

8. To perform all other duties assigned by the President

D. Vice President of Communication has the following duties and responsibilities:

1. To prepare, record, and maintain accurate minutes of all meetings of the Board and the membership, and ensure their timely distribution and archival. 

2. To maintain custody of the Association’s official records and documents, and ensure proper retention, organization, and accessibility in accordance with applicable policies and legal requirements.  

3. To serve as the primary officer responsible for issuing, receiving, and maintaining official communication on behalf of the Association, including notices, accouchements, and formal correspondence.  

4. To oversee the development, maintenance, and accuracy of the Association’s website, ensuring that information is current, accessible, and aligned with the Association’s mission and branding.  

5. To direct the Association’s social media presence and public-facing communications to ensure consistent messaging, professional standards, and appropriate engagements with members and the broader community.  

6. To ensure that key documents, reports, and communications are made available to the membership as required by the bylaws and/or Board directives.  

7. To perform all other duties assigned by the President

E. Vice President of Finance has the following duties and responsibilities:

1. To provide oversight of the Association’s financial affairs, ensuring accurate, transparent, and responsible management of all funds and assets.

2. To ensure proper maintenance of financial books, records, and accounts in accordance with applicable laws, standards, and Association bylaws.

3. To prepare and present regular financial statements to the Board, including income and expense reports, balance updates, and budget performance summaries.

4. To lead the development of the annual budget, monitor adherence throughout the fiscal year, and recommend adjustments as necessary to support the Association’s programs and strategic priorities.

5. To oversee the Association’s bank accounts, authorize disbursements, and ensure appropriate internal controls for handling funds, payments, and reimbursements.

6. To ensure compliance with all financial policies, reports obligations, and applicable federal and state regulations

7. To prepare and submit all required federal, state, and organizational filings, including annual reports, tax documents, corporate registrations, and any other compliance-related documentation in a timely manner.

8. To perform all other duties assigned by the President 

SECTION 5: Resignations (Amended 2026)

A. In the event of a vacancy in the office of President due to resignation, removal, or any other inability to serve, the following succession procedures shall apply:

1. Primary Succession – The VP of Training & Development shall immediately assume the duties and responsibilities of the President on an interim basis.

2. Secondary Succession – If the VP of Training & Development is unable or unwilling to serve, the VP of Membership shall assume the duties and responsibilities of the President on an interim basis.

3. Duration of Interim Service – Any officer assuming the duties of the President under this section shall serve only until the next scheduled election of the President, at which time the membership shall elect an individual to fill the vacated position for a new term.

4. Authority During Interim Period – An officer serving in an interim presidential capacity shall have all power, duties, and authority of the President.

B. In the event of a vacancy in any Vice-Presidential office due to resignation, removal, or promotion, the President shall appoint a full member in good standing to fill the vacated position. Such an appointment shall be subject to approval by a majority vote of the Board. The appointed individual shall perform the duties of the position until the next scheduled election for that position. 

SECTION 6: Meetings

A. The Executive Board will meet no less than once per quarter. 

B. Telephonic and virtual conference calls fulfill the meeting requirements under Paragraph A. 

SECTION 7: Quorum

No business shall be conducted in a Board session without the presence of a minimum of three elected Board members.

A. Each full member will have an equal voice in the issues before the NORCAN with one vote per full member in good standing.

B. Voting shall work as follows:

1. Voting for Board members and by-laws shall be by ballot distributed to all eligible members. A candidate or by-law must receive a majority of votes to be elected or pass.

2. Voting on business matters at meetings shall be by voice vote, aye or nay, or by show of hands by members present. Any business matter which receives a majority of votes from members present at the meeting shall pass.

C. Proxy votes will be permitted, if the vote is in writing (emails will be accepted if the voting member’s name is included). Proxy votes must include the issue that the member is voting on, and that they will not be able to attend the meeting where the vote will be held.

A. Nominations and elections will take place at a time determined by the Board. When the Board makes this determination, an Elections Committee shall be stood up according to Article VII (Amended 2026). 

1. The Elections Committee will conduct the voting process according to Article IV. 

2. Board members and candidates who are up for election are not eligible to serve on an Elections Committee. 

B. Board members will be elected for two-year terms. Elections for the offices of VP of Training & Development and VP of Communications will take place in even-numbered years. Elections for the offices of President, VP of Membership and VP of Finance will take place in odd-numbered years.

A. Dues will be set by the Executive Board and voted on by the Association. The annual membership fee will be due at a time to be determined by the Board. The Board will evaluate special circumstances on an individual basis.

B. The Board shall establish guidelines for the use of funds for general business operation. No personal expenditures shall be paid from Association accounts. Expenditures shall require the approval of two (2) members of the Board.

SECTION 1: Establishment, Appointment, Composition, and Administration (Amended 2026)

A. Committees may be established through the following means:

1. As provided in these by-laws;

2. By a 3/5 vote of the Executive Board

3. Ten (10) members in good standing may petition the Board to stand up a committee. Proposed committees shall be submitted in writing to the President.

B. The Board shall appoint the Chairperson of the committee, who will then select all committee members to be approved by the Board. The Chairperson is responsible for updating the Board on the status and progress of their committee at regularly scheduled meetings. 

C. Committee members must be in good standing for the full tenure of their appointment.

D. Committees shall consist of no fewer than three (3) members. Any committee that has less than three members shall be dissolved, and a new committee may be formed following the procedures outlined in Article VII, Section 1. 

E. Any committee requiring an operating budget must submit a budget proposal prior to expenditure of funds. The committee must provide regular updates on expenditures to the Board. At the dissolution of a committee, the committee must provide a full accounting of all expenses, and any unused funds shall be returned to the general NORCAN budget.  

SECTION 2: Standing Committees & Appointed Positions (Amended 2026)

The Association shall select and approve an emblem or logo to be used as the symbol of the Association and it shall appear on letterhead and official documents of NORCAN. 

SECTION 1: Proposing Amendments

Any full member of NORCAN in good standing may propose an amendment. Proposed amendments to the By-laws shall be submitted in writing to the VP of Training & Development. A By-laws Review Committee shall be stood up according to Article VII. The Bylaws Committee will then review and submit proposed amendments, along with their recommendations to the Board (Amended 2026).

SECTION 2: Ratification Process

Proposed amendments must be presented to the members for review and discussion at least one month prior to the vote. Amendments shall be submitted and approved one section at a time, except when two or more sections are contingent on each other, in which case they may be submitted and voted upon as a single measure.

SECTION 3: Voting for Amendments

A. Voter eligibility and thresholds for passing amendments shall be conducted according to rules provided in Article IV.

B. Within seven (7) days of the end of the review and discussion period the Vice President of Communications shall assist the Elections Committee to send ballots to every eligible member. The voting period shall close 21 days from the date the ballots were issued.

C. The Elections Committee shall tally the votes and report the results to the Board both verbally and in writing. The VP of Communications will make a reasonable effort to report the results to the entire NORCAN membership within 48 hours after receiving the results from the Elections Committee.

SECTION 4: Implementation

Ratified amendments shall be incorporated into the By-laws document by the VP of Communications and the By-laws will include notation indicating on what date it was amended. Updated electronic versions of the By-laws will be distributed to the entire membership within 30 days from ratification by the Vice President of Communications. Hardcopy versions of the updated By-laws shall be provided by the Vice President of Communications upon request. Board meeting minutes shall include record of the ratified amendment and document the implementation of the new edition of the By-laws.