NCJ Number
201006
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 70 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2003 Pages: 36-39
Editor(s)
Charles E. Higginbotham
Date Published
June 2003
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article highlights various types of computer software that may aid police officers in conducting crime prevention.
Abstract
Based on descriptions provided by manufactures and users, this article describes the City of Lincoln and Lancaster County, NE, personal computer-based emergency alert system that provides public notification of local, State, and national emergencies, as well as State Amber Alerts for missing children. Downloadable from the Lincoln’s Web site, this desktop alert system may be accessed by visiting http://interline.ci.lincoln.ne.us. Another type of computer software, GeoCast, developed by Dialogic Communications Corporation, can be used to notify a business district or a neighborhood concerning a missing child. Communicating by phone, fax, pager, and e-mail, this system announces missing persons, inclement weather, and evacuation notices. VeriTracks from Veridan is a type of computer software that integrates geo-mapping and global position satellite technology to remove the anonymity of non-incarcerated criminals under the supervision of State, local, or Federal criminal justice agencies. Another type of computer software, AutoTrackXP from ChoicePoint, enables individuals to conduct background checks, locate people for questioning, and validate personal identities. CodyLinks, from Cody Computer Services Inc., offers law enforcement officials a wide range of computer products including records management, computer aided dispatch, property bar coding, jail management, mobile interface, and regional information sharing. EWA Strategist is a database merging tool that enables crime analysts to quickly access multiple disparate crime-related databases. PSI Mobile Software from Northrop Grumman Information Technology uses data devices for standard mobile data terminal applications. Ramsafe is a software system that enables first responders and emergency managers to better prepare in the event of a terrorist attack or a natural disaster, by teaching pre-incident preparations. Terra View2, by TerraGraphiX Inc., is a situational awareness software that allows coordinated communication across all levels of government. CoBRA (Chemical Biological Response Aide) from Defense Groups Inc., provides critical data, procedural guidelines, and integrated incident command system communications documentation for hazmat and weapons of mass destruction. TRAXPro from Jamar Technologies produces comprehensive traffic reports to enable law enforcement officials to better negotiate traffic. Visual Staff Scheduler is a basic staff scheduling computer software tool designed for law enforcement agencies with fewer than 50 employees.