NCJ Number
74666
Date Published
1978
Length
137 pages
Annotation
The report presents the findings of a cost/benefit analysis of feasible alternatives for the possibility of developing an automated police information system for the Oxnard, Calif., Police Department.
Abstract
An analysis of current information processing at the Oxnard Police Department and the Oxnard city data processing unit identified a number of automated applications of interest to the department. Two alternatives were found to be technically feasible: to upgrade Oxnard's computer to accommodate the record processing for the police department, and to purchase a minicomputer dedicated solely to police applications. Upgrading the city computer was found to be cost prohibitive in terms of anticipated police usage. The report recommends (1) purchase of a minicomputer dedicated solely to police usage and (2) establishment of a system user's group, consisting of staff representatives from every major unit within the department as well as every other department or agency with which the information system will interact. Specific recommendations for current procedures, pending implementation of the minicomputer purchase, include a reorganized report flow, accountability of the watch commander for the completeness and accuracy of all crime/incident reports, cross-tabulation of entry and dispatch records, multiple report distribution to the crime analysis unit and to the keypunch for entry into the city computer, and strict accountability of dispatch for reportable incidents and all officer-initiated activities. The background, concept, and policy of the National Crime Information Center computerized criminal history program; current automated information systems for city-level police agencies under 250,000 people which could be candidates for system transfer; and the Standardized Crime Reporting system implementation criteria are appended.