Harnessing data for safer communities

When ranking the most significant developments of the digital age, the evolution of data storage does not garner many glamour points. Yet few innovations have had such a profound impact on the ability to develop new technologies and perform tasks previously unimaginable. The ability to gather, store and analyze almost unlimited amounts of data has transformed almost every aspect of society, including law enforcement. While the possibilities of using data to improve safety and ensure justice are seemingly endless, harnessing this power does not come without its challenges.

The data deluge: Challenges of managing and analyzing information
In the modern law enforcement landscape, the emergence of real-time crime centers has opened possibilities and presented significant challenges. The central challenge they face is the overwhelming deluge of data from diverse sources. To gain a deeper understanding of this issue, we need to examine the multiple streams of data inundating real-time crime centers, including body and patrol vehicle cameras, traffic cameras, private commercial cameras, news reports, weather updates, 911 and 311 calls, social media feeds and law enforcement databases.

This plethora of data is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it offers law enforcement agencies an unprecedented wealth of information that can be harnessed for situational awareness, safety, coordination of response times and more. On the other hand, managing and analyzing this vast array of data poses significant complexities. Real-time crime centers serve as the central nervous system of law enforcement agencies, where all this information is collected, analyzed and acted upon. The volume of data is so immense that it can quickly become overwhelming without the right tools and strategies in place to manage it.

Navigating the information flood. One of the primary challenges is the daily influx of “real time” data that could significantly enhance situational awareness during operations. Imagine an officer pursuing a suspect in a high-speed car chase; they cannot simultaneously monitor traffic cameras to track the suspect’s vehicle in real time, despite the availability of such data. While patrol vehicles are becoming more sophisticated, they are not the ideal workspace for data processing, making it essential to centralize this task in real-time crime centers.

Dispatching, as important as it is, is only one piece of the situational picture. The challenge lies in coordinating and analyzing data from diverse sources, which requires well-trained staff to navigate this information flood effectively. Unfortunately, field personnel and their supervisors often lack data acquisition and analysis training, making the need for advanced tools and training programs even more critical.

The role of AI in data processing. One pivotal solution to the data deluge is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to augment human capabilities. AI can assist in sifting through massive data streams, identifying patterns and providing actionable insights. It can help law enforcement agencies transform data into actionable intelligence, streamlining operations and enhancing overall situational awareness.

Key considerations for success

• The choice of software is paramount. Selecting software capable of viewing and processing data from multiple applications is essential.
• The software should simplify sharing information and offer a user-friendly graphical interface that can be customized to provide a focused view without unnecessary features.
• A proactive approach is essential. Start by organizing data sources effectively, encompassing camera video, databases, radio communications, social media, weather updates and more. This ensures ease of maintenance and access to critical information. Additionally, stringent cybersecurity measures must be in place to protect these invaluable data sources from potential threats.

Overcoming financial hurdles and demonstrating the value of crime centers
The financial barrier is one of the most significant challenges to implementing this technology. The cost of implementing modern AV systems can be substantial, leaving agencies to wrestle with budget constraints and the need to demonstrate the value of these centers to secure funding. Several strategies will help clients navigate the budgetary challenges.

Educating decision makers: One of the key strategies is education. Convincing decision makers of the value of real-time crime centers is paramount. When seeking funding from entities like city councils, statistics can be a persuasive tool. Highlighting the positive impact on public safety, reduced crime rates and enhanced officer retention can make a compelling case for investment. For example, real-time crime centers enable first responders and law enforcement officers to approach scenes with more information, ultimately enhancing their safety. This, in turn, contributes to better officer retention, as officers feel more supported and equipped for their duties.

Community engagement: Building relationships within the community is also essential. Businesses and residents alike are more inclined to invest in safe areas. By engaging with the community and fostering a sense of security, real-time crime centers can indirectly protect investments by reducing crime rates. This connection between law enforcement and the community strengthens the bond between the two and provides a strong rationale for funding.

Improved response times: Public safety hinges on the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies, and real-time crime centers play a vital role in this regard. By equipping officers with the tools and information they need to respond quickly and efficiently, crime centers contribute directly to enhanced safety. Convincing stakeholders of this improvement in response times can be a compelling argument for funding.

Key considerations for success

• Dedicated and well-trained staff: The staffing of a real-time crime center is of utmost importance. Successful centers have dedicated staff specifically trained to work in the center. Rotating staff on temporary light duty into the center could be more effective and help efficiency.
• Rapid prototyping and testing: To ensure that real-time crime centers are agile and responsive to emerging challenges, it’s crucial to adopt a mentality of “failing fast.” Starting small, prototyping, and testing use cases allows agencies to measure results and quickly evaluate success or failure. If a particular approach succeeds, it can be scaled as needed; if it fails, lessons learned can inform the next iteration.
• Tours and visits: Decision makers can often find it challenging to envision the potential of a real-time crime center. Conducting tours of existing facilities or inviting them to visit other crime centers can help them see the vision more clearly and understand the potential benefits.
• Financial navigation and grant assistance: The financial challenges of implementing a real-time crime center can be complex. While some firms may not directly participate in the grant application process, consulting groups like the Center for Public Safety often specialize in grant writing, providing invaluable assistance in securing the necessary funding for these critical projects. The financial hurdles associated with real-time crime centers can be significant. Still, with the right strategies, education, and community engagement, agencies can secure the funding needed to enhance public safety, reduce crime rates and boost officer retention, ultimately strengthening the connection between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Leveraging full potential
While the challenges of deploying real time crime centers to achieve their true potential are significant, they are in no way insurmountable. The solutions presented here will allow agencies to leverage their full potential in service to improving our communities.

Taw North, RCDD, LEED AP, is principal | regional director with TLC ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS®. He can be reached at [email protected].