NCJ Number
158145
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 62 Issue: 10 Dated: (October 1995) Pages: 25-26,33
Date Published
1995
Length
3 pages
Annotation
In 1991, the prosecutor's office of Hudson County (N.J.) began an effort to substantially improve its computer technology to meet the needs of the 21st Century, because its staff of 275 assistant prosecutors, investigators, and support personnel had only three personal computers, supplemented by typewriters with some memory storage functions.
Abstract
The first task was to list needs and set priorities. Three major goals were to devise an efficient word processing network, to develop an efficient investigative software program, and to establish an efficient record retention and archival capability that would include personnel histories and budget data. Staff members were also identified who would be likely to learn and be open to more modern methods; these individuals were the first to be placed onto the new system in all divisions. Senior staff were also encouraged to suspend the usual way of doing things and be supportive of subordinates efforts to learn the new system. Training was implemented, and a separate computer division was established to handle training, network installation, and enhancements. Forfeited assets and long-term capital funding from the county government financed the project. The current system has four Unix platforms and more than 130 personal computers and terminal printers. The technology has changed the way many departments operate. Optical disk storage has replaced microfilming. The investigative computer system permits access to local and State information as well as online bulletin boards and the Internet. Hudson County has the reputation as a leader in computer technology and has proven that computer technology is the future of law enforcement.