NCJ Number
133862
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 39 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1991) Pages: 55-58
Date Published
1991
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The Lafayette, Colorado Police Department has substantially decreased the time required to make quarterly Law Enforcement Assistance Fund (LEAF) grant reports by adopting a computerized recordkeeping system.
Abstract
In addition to time savings, the department increased the accuracy of reports and provides more relevant information to the Colorado Division of Highway Safety. The computer system keeps detailed records of time commitment, statistical information on grant-related activities, and monies. Rather than using handwritten notes and ledger sheets as a basis for the quarterly LEAF report, Lafayette has a set of computer-generated reports, complete with totals for monies spent in different project areas. The reports contain accurate math calculations and do not require spending a long time punching numbers into a calculator. The computer's data storage abilities enable Lafayette to keep comprehensive records of activities. The computer program tracks two main sets of data, financial figures and enforcement activity information for LEAF grant shifts and department totals. Activity reports are broken down for four different files: department DUI (driving under the influence) arrest tracking, individual LEAF grant shift statistics, officer effectiveness evaluation, and overtime assignment. Claims for LEAF reimbursement and matching fund documentation must be supportable. Procedures for using the computer system are described as well as the hardware and software required for the system.