NCJ Number
218759
Date Published
April 2002
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This report provides police managers with considerations concerning the integration of new imaging technologies.
Abstract
Police managers should consider 10 main issues when contemplating integrating new imaging technologies into their departments: (1) agency needs; (2) cost of equipment; (3) image resolution; (4) image storage; (5) image compression; (6) equipment evaluation; (7) standard operating procedures (SOPs); (8) training; (9) recurring costs; and (10) legal considerations. New imagining technologies can significantly impact current work processes and protocols. As such, it is important that police managers carefully consider any imaging technologies they may want to incorporate into their police practices. This consideration should begin with a needs assessment that includes an evaluation of current practices in order to determine whether there is actually a need to replace or enhance technologies already owned by the agency. Cost analysis is the second major consideration and should include a financial comparison between the current and proposed imaging systems as well as an analysis of system hardware requirements, software, maintenance needs, training, and facilities upgrades. Moreover, image resolution, storage, and compression are all issues that impact how images are used in a court of law and should, therefore, be carefully considered before imaging technology is purchased. The suitability of the new imaging technology should be ascertained followed by a review of the SOPs related to the new technology. The initial and continued training of staff should be reviewed along with a consideration of recurring costs involved with the proposed technology. Finally, police managers should examine how the rules of evidence apply to the proposed imaging technology. Footnotes