NCJ Number
152755
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 61 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1994) Pages: 31-32,34-36,38
Date Published
1994
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Technology including laptop computers, mobile data terminals, and video cameras has enabled police officers to spend more time on the streets, and many police departments across the United States have adopted state-of-the-art communications systems.
Abstract
The North Olmsted, Ohio, Police Department has an automated regional information system that serves nine counties. The system has more than 900 land-based and mobile terminals and enables police officers to perform vehicle checks in seconds. The Anne Arundel County, Maryland, Police Department has outfitted four cars with the Smart Car system which features an automated dispatch system and onboard computers. Computer technology has also been implemented in various other U.S. cities. One of the biggest advantages of using mobile computers is greater accuracy because fewer humans handle the information. Further, portable computers enhance police officer safety by providing an information edge. Police departments considering the purchase of mobile computers for their officers should understand the difference between a terminal and a computer and should conduct a thorough needs analysis before equipment purchase. Police departments should also determine if the equipment they want to purchase is compatible with other agencies.