TECHBeat, May 2017

• NCJ Number: 250921
• Date Published: May 2017
• Length: 25 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2014-IJ-CX-K404
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Report (Technical Assistance); Report (Grant Sponsored); Program/Project Description; Instructional Material

Annotation

Feature articles that report developments in technology for law enforcement, corrections, and forensic sciences discuss the fit-related requirement for receiving bulletproof vest partnership funds, which has just taken effect; the increased potential for firearms identification with the use of optical topography; a real-time reporting system that maps drug overdoses; and New Jersey's launching of a program for SRO-trained law enforcement officers.

Abstract

"Fit-Related Requirement to Receive Bulletproof Vest Partnership Funds Takes Effect" notes the implications of a recent amendment to the legislation reauthorizing the Bulletproof Vest Partnership (BVP) program. This amendment requires that to be eligible for such funds, agencies must ensure that vests purchased with the funds be "uniquely fitted" to each officer who will wear one of the funded vests. This means that each officer who will wear a funded vest must be physically measured so as to ensure that the vest she/he wears fits so that it fully covers the officer's chest and back. This requirement takes effect beginning in 2017. "Optical Topography Increases Potential for Firearms Identification" argues that in contrast to traditional approaches to identify ballistic markings, optical topography provides a three-dimensional view of the surface of a bullet or cartridge case at resolutions that capture the full range of subclass and individual characteristics. "Real-Time Reporting System Maps Drug Overdoses" reports that a free online overdose reporting system enables law enforcement and other first responders to report quickly and map the location of known and suspected overdose incidents and share information across jurisdictions. This article describes this Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program (ODMAP). "New Jersey Launches Program for SRO-Trained Special law Enforcement Officers" reports on an innovation that enables New Jersey schools to hire retired law enforcement officers who meet specific conditions. These officers will receive the same training as that received by sworn school resource officers.