NCJ Number
185312
Date Published
1999
Length
81 pages
Annotation
An initiative proposed by the Clinton Administration would increase funding for State and local law enforcement, with emphasis on technology assistance, technology deployment, crime lab improvements, and training; this book provides information on the current status of these efforts, presents examples of what has been accomplished, and suggests improvements.
Abstract
State and local law enforcement agencies commonly work with and receive technical assistance from a number of Federal agencies. In addition, the National Institute of Justice has established a system of four regional National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Centers (NLECTCs), four NLECTC Special Offices, and a national center to provide technology assistance and assistance with technology deployment. Each of these is collocated with technology research and development organizations to leverage this Federal investment with existing infrastructure. These NLECTCs have responded to some 10,000 requests for assistance annually. Examples of technology assistance include audio enhancement of tape recordings, still-photo enhancement of surveillance videotapes, computer file analysis, metallurgical analysis, and assistance with crime mapping analysis. The proposed initiative would add 10 regional NLECTCs to the 4 currently operating. It would also help State and local crime laboratories modernize and would build on a Department of Justice/Department of Defense partnership to make training more accessible through increased use of modern training technology. This report recommends Federal funding in a number of technology areas as well as an in-depth study to determine what law enforcement technologies are currently used across the Nation, how well they are performing, and how the Federal Government might most effectively and efficiently assist technological modernization. 39 references