NCJ Number
214849
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 33 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2006 Pages: 102,104-106,108,109
Date Published
June 2006
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes the development and uses of voice recognition technology (VRT) to improve police officer efficiency.
Abstract
Although technology has greatly enhanced the efficiency and capabilities of law enforcement, it has also complicated law enforcement work to some extent. Patrol vehicles have become crowded with light and radio equipment, audio/video recorders, field reporting tools, and computer equipment. VRT provides the capability to improve and simplify the patrol vehicle environment and to reduce repetitive stress injuries by substituting multiple manual operations with voice commands. By relying on voice commands instead of manual movements, safety is improved because officers are able to keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. The development of VRT systems for patrol use was undertaken by the University of New Hampshire and by Visteon Corporation in Van Buren Township, MI. These systems are being increasingly utilized by law enforcement agencies across the country with success. Some drawbacks of the VRT systems are considered, such as the fact that citizens will not understand how to operate the systems intuitively in cases in which they must call for help using police equipment. The author speculates that after the initial resistance to VRT wears off, which is expected with any new technology that significantly changes the way officers do their job, VRT will emerge as one of the most useful new police technologies.