Connectivity is the cornerstone of public safety. And for law enforcement professionals, that means the ability to connect in real-time to the partners, systems, and data sources that enable them to do what they do best.
Technology plays a fundamental role in keeping law enforcement agencies and their officers connected. And today, many such agencies are leveraging a mix of smart surveillance technologies, cloud computing, and data aggregation and analytics to reap the following benefits:
A shared lens: Data consolidation is the process of collecting and distilling multiple data streams (e.g., municipal cameras, live maps, public databases, GPS tracking, etc.) into a single source where it can be analyzed and assessed for greater, real-time situational awareness. This enables agencies to spot public safety risks as they surface or use this “shared lens” to take a more proactive approach to policing.
Data consolidation is already being used in many sectors to gain a holistic view of operations across multiple locations and functions. That includes law enforcement where agencies are using technologies like Genetec Citigraf platform to unify data streams and operations, disseminate timely information, and create real-time crime centers (RTTCs).” Learn more about Albuquerque Police Department improved public safety and real-time operations with Citigraf.
Community cohesion: Advancements in cloud computing help law enforcement professionals to work in sync with community members and sector partners to keep their communities safe.
For example, Genetec’s Stratocast is a cloud-based video monitoring system that members of the public can use to keep a watchful eye on their home, business, or public space. These feeds can then be securely collected and centralized by Genetec’s Community Connect platform, letting law enforcement agencies see the same feeds and respond accordingly.
The Community Connect platform is another example of leveraging various technologies to build stronger ties between the public and private sector. Moreover, it’s an example of how cloud-based platforms and real-time monitoring tools can be used to create effective ‘crime-fighting nerve centers.
Information everywhere: One of the greatest advantages modern tech can offer to the law enforcement sector is access to critical information when and where officers need it most. Here again, cloud-based computing and advanced data tools can make it easy for law enforcement professionals to “tap” into data streams through their in-car and on-person devices, resulting in faster and more effective responses.
AutoVu Cloudrunner is an example of this connectivity in action. Genetec’s vehicle-centric investigation system uses cloud-based software and purpose-built camera to gather and disseminate vehicle-based evidence (e.g., model, license, colour, characteristics, vehicle behaviour) in any condition. Moreover, it is designed to help officers identify suspects immediately, locate vehicles of interest, and be notified when a vehicle on a watchlist is detected, among other functions.
Centralized surveillance, shared resources, and instant access to critical information and evidence. These are just some of the ways advanced public safety technologies are helping law enforcement professionals work on a deeper level with their communities to uphold public safety.
We live in an increasingly connected world, so it makes sense that law enforcement agencies need the same –or even greater – degree of connectivity to keep their people safe.
