NCJ Number
235682
Date Published
January 2009
Length
128 pages
Annotation
This project examined cutting-edge technologies that have the greatest potential for improving the ability of law enforcement to fulfill the security needs of the public.
Abstract
Key findings from the literature review conducted for this study show that while police agencies use information technology (IT) extensively in their operations, significant gaps remain in their IT capabilities; the use of communications technology is a high priority for many law enforcement agencies, and that improving the interoperability of their communications is a primary objective; improving the collection and processing of DNA evidence has significant potential for improving criminal investigations; police agencies have significantly increased the use of camera surveillance in their investigations; and a need exists for more evaluation research to provide law enforcement officials with information as to which technologies are most valuable and most cost-effective. This study from the Police Executive Research Forum examined cutting-edge technologies that have the greatest potential for improving the ability of law enforcement agencies to fulfill the security needs of their communities. The study had six main objectives: to explore and document the operational needs of law enforcement agencies, and the law enforcement perspective on technologyincluding beliefs about its effectiveness; to develop a prioritized list of technologies for law enforcement; and to examine barriers to the introduction of technology in the law enforcement community; to develop insights into the technology acquisition process for law enforcement agencies of different sizes; and to examine the uniqueness of the law enforcement context and implications for technology applications. Data for this study were obtained through an extensive literature review of prior research in this field, a national survey of law enforcement personnel, and focus groups/workshops with 29 law enforcement agencies from around the country. The results of the literature review, survey, and focus groups/workshops are presented in this report along with recommendations for future work in this area. Tables, figures, references, and appendixes