NCJ Number
88596
Date Published
1981
Length
12 pages
Annotation
The use of sworn personnel exclusively or in some combination with civilian employees as data processing specialists has advantages, including continuity in the face of employee turnover, continued service during union job actions, and the deeper fusion of technology with the paramilitary organization.
Abstract
It is difficult for law enforcement agencies to secure and retain civilian data processing specialists because of the superior ability of private business to attract such persons with salary and career opportunities. The use of sworn personnel exclusively or in combination with civilian employees can help resolve this problem. The retirement and other benefits associated with sworn positions contributes to lower turnover among sworn personnel in specialist positions; thus, knowledge of existing hardware/software as well as plans for new applications is maintained even though civilian computer personnel move on. Having a combination of civilians and sworn personnel also provides insurance for continued service during union job actions. Also, having sworn planning and supervisory personnel in key technical support positions facilitates the more effective use of automated data processing in law enforcement planning and operations. Also, automation creates certain new tasks in addition to the need for software development and maintenance personnel. Where possible, these duties should be shifted into police operations functions rather than creating specialized positions. Further, online applications should be integrated into routine clerical and operational activities, since such functions do not require highly technical expertise. The overall result is a deeper investment by the agency in system ownership, an integration of technology into the agency, and the equipping of law enforcement personnel for better decisionmaking in the use of technology.