NCJ Number
176221
Journal
CrimeCom Volume: 4 Issue: 3 Dated: July 1996 Pages: 14-18
Date Published
1996
Length
3 pages
Annotation
The innovative use of technology involving a county information system and computer network, mobile data terminals in police cars, links between emergency resource systems, and digital composites and photography has helped the San Diego Police Department (SDPD) reduce crime.
Abstract
The Automated Regional Justice Information System (ARJIS) provides basic records management for 28 local, State, and Federal law enforcement agencies in San Diego County. The ARJIS contains information on crime cases, arrests, citations, traffic accidents, forged documents, and field interviews, and the system is used as an investigative tool. In addition to the quick and easy access of regional information through ARJIS, San Diego County is implementing a computer network in which all law enforcement agencies in the county will switch to a standard long-range protocol. Additionally, San Diego police officers have quick and easy access to records from their vehicles using mobile data terminals that allow them to send messages or run suspect checks without having to use a police radio to request a check. The SDPD also uses computer software designed to do composite pictures that allows the automated capture, retrieval, and manipulation of images, fingerprints, and information on arrestees. The SDPD's use of technology is the result of its philosophy of neighborhood policing, and the innovative use of technology enables the SDPD to make the most of limited resources. 2 figures