NCJ Number
224063
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 35 Issue: 8 Dated: August 2008 Pages: 22,24-30,31
Date Published
August 2008
Length
9 pages
Annotation
The police chief of San Jose, CA explains how San Jose can maintain its nationally recognized high safety rating through employing technology and crime-mapping strategies.
Abstract
To help maintain its prestigious ranking, as the 10th largest city in America and the “Safest Big City in America,” the police chief of San Jose, CA relies on the newest applications available to law enforcement to enhance the department’s capabilities. San Jose currently enjoys the lowest crime rate of any major city. Keeping a handle on trouble spots and certain kinds of illegal activity is crucial to holding this coveted title. However, San Jose’s existing crime mapping system was viewed as cumbersome and not user-friendly. In looking for the most cost-effective way to improve their invaluable crime mapping tool, Crime Reports was found. Crime Reports provides a service in which the department can control, change, and use internally, as well as make information available to the public in real time or with a few hours delay. In this article, the police chief of San Jose explains how enhancements to the crime mapping system through the use of innovative technology have aided in San Jose authorities maintaining its “Safest Big City” title.