NCJ Number
88290
Date Published
1982
Length
25 pages
Annotation
The discussion opens with a description of information systems technology followed by consideration of information privacy and security, management policy, police reporting, information networks, and specific management applications of information processing.
Abstract
The systems technology which has developed in recent years facilitates the centralization of police records. If the police administrator wants to maintain local control of information, he/she must give attention to how information management works in relation to security and privacy. The best way is for the administrator to know what information is maintained in the files, know how it is used, and to be certain that both content and use are proper. Management policy on information must take account of information objectives, management review, training, incident reporting and control, and management analysis. The mechanics of police reporting must deal with generalized versus specialized forms, report processing and distribution, report signatures, and records retention. Some advancements in police information include the expansion of the network of files, full index conversion, automated reporting, computer-aided dispatching, on-line management information, crime analysis, query languages, and crime analysis support system. Special techniques include the automated vehicle locator, mobile digital terminals, and automated fingerprint identification. Four footnotes are provided.