NCJ Number
199066
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 50 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2003 Pages: 32,34-35,36
Editor(s)
Charles E. Higginbotham
Date Published
February 2003
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the use of computer technology and scientific advances by police management.
Abstract
A tactical computer system was launched by the Alexandria, VA, Police Department to address data needs. The system is designed to run on a private cellular data network and to interface with computer-aided dispatch, records management, and other systems. The results of the tactical computer system have included reduced radio traffic, increased checks leading to more arrests, and immediate access to data from police reports. The tactical computer system includes an intranet that gives officers instant access to photographs and data on wanted and missing persons, policies and procedures, electronic documents, and other vital information. The Vancouver Police Department in Canada has developed an online secondhand property reporting system to find stolen property being bought, accepted in pawn, or taken on consignment by secondhand stores, pawnshops, and consignment stores. Businesses that buy secondhand property or accept it in pawn or on consignment must report details of the transaction daily to the police. Using the old paper-based reporting system, police had no effective way to search the data. Xtract is a secure Internet-based system that allows businesses to record the purchase and pawning of property and notify police through an online reporting system. The system automatically compares transaction reports against stolen property listed in two police databases. The Broward Sheriff’s Office in south Florida has incorporated the distance learning (DL) program, a system in which deputies take courses by computer instead of in a traditional classroom. DL offers products from Law Enforcement Television Network (LETN), meets appropriate standards for accreditation, and offers savings in training fees.