NCJ Number
87011
Date Published
1979
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This technical assistance report identifies problems in the existing communications systems of the Sheriff's Department of Wasco County, Ore., and advisory recommendations are offered.
Abstract
Problems in the existing communications systems include: (1) radio channel congestion, with frequent instances of delays in accessing the channel; (2) inadequate radio system coverage, with some areas of the county being completely out of communication and other areas marginal; and (3) inadequate dispatch center equipment, location, and layout. Currently, a single radio system is serving police agencies in several Oregon and Washington counties. It is recommended that the Oregon agencies develop a separate radio system with Wasco County as the hub. The existing system could be reworked and retained at the Wasco and Haystack sites for primary dispatch of Washington agencies and to provide for coordination between Oregon and Washington. As the new radio dispatch system is developed, consideration should be given to additional or relocated mobile relay sites to furnish reliable coverage of the service area, microwave or other intertie system between controls and relay sites to allow automatic voting and selection, and an emergency power system for relay sites. In rebuilding the dispatch center, consideration should be given to a terminal to provide access to the Oregon State Information System, a logging recorder for radio and telephone systems, an instant-replay recorder for emergency telephone lines, and remodeling the dispatch area to provide security for personnel and for efficient operation. Recommendations for the short-term are also provided. Maps of the area and illustrations for the new design are provided.