NCJ Number
200522
Date Published
December 2003
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This Web cast interface program, presented by the El Paso Police Department, examines four investigative elements using commercial, off-the-shelf existing technology that is low-cost, plug and play, and user friendly to upgrade and enhance present forensic technology capabilities.
Abstract
Supported by the National Institute of Justice, National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center (LECTC), this Web cast interface, teleconferencing program was created to benefit law enforcement line personnel, the courtroom, and management in a phased approach of enhancing forensic technology within four investigative elements: undercover or covert operations, major crime scenes, critical incidents, and helmet camera system for SWAT teams. With the need to upgrade forensic capabilities, this interface program presented by the El Paso Police Department provides technology enhancements with the use of low-cost, plug and play, user friendly, and commercial off-the-shelf existing technology that is non-vendor specific. Key issues discussed include: (1) undercover or covert capabilities enhanced with an investigator’s tool kit from Sandia National Laboratory, upgrading audio and video equipment at low cost with on-hands training; (2) major crime scenes demonstrate the potential of the technology to homicide investigators through a modification of the investigators tool kit using a wireless camcorder; and (3) critical incidents utilize a combination of a camcorder and prototype helmet or pole cameras for “real live” views of incidents. These proposed methods offer positive results with real-time information application, investigators gaining back valuable time, the ability of crime scene units to determine the scope of the scene, and the district attorney’s office approving the use of these systems for court. The current status of enhancing forensic technology includes: enhancing capabilities, addressing distance capabilities, the power of the signal, the deployment of the system, encryption issues, and continuing to develop a plug and play, low-cost system. The interface program includes a course map, resources, program evaluation, and question bank.