Computers Let Cops Run Silent, Run Deep

The police department of Lewiston, Idaho, has launched a new $225,000 computer system that can transmit calls without relying on radios. According to Lewiston Police Capt. Paul Ayers, the system will be initially used only for lower-risk calls as officers become familiar with using the system to minimize risks.

. Once all the officers know how to use it, the new computer system will be used for every type of call, including domestic violence, robberies, and other mid- and high-priority calls. Lt. Roger Lanier says the benefits to officers are two-fold: They do not have to wait for dispatchers to call them back for important data, and air waves will be less jammed.

The new system will also allow officers to initiate partial license plate number searches directly at the crime scene or write accident reports from inside their vehicles. Officers can also access booking photos if a suspect was arrested in the past.

A total of 17 vehicles have been outfitted with a monitor, modem, and keyboard, and a new repeater antenna has been mounted at Fire Station No. 2 to allow the system to function.

The police department’s computer systems specialist Teresa Cash has been working with officers over the past three years to choose the optimum system, which she says is to be funded by a $100,000 homeland security grant and funds from the regular budget.
Abstracted by the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center(NLECTC) from the Lewiston Morning Tribune (05/21/04) P. 1C; Ferguson, Dean .