High tech cops hit the streets

Investment by Police & Crime Commissioner John Dwyer to purchase 1,700 tablet computers could mean an extra 340,000 hours of police officer time on the streets, protecting Cheshire’s communities. 

That’s the estimate being put forward by the Constabulary as it looks to provide the majority of officers with the latest mobile computing devices later this year.

https://youtu.be/Al65gjWqje4​​​

“It’s a real opportunity to improve the productivity of our officers” said Chief Constable Simon Byrne.

“By having mobile computing power in their pockets, connected to force systems, there will be no need for officers to return several times per shift to a station to complete routine reports. Instead, they can file reports from victims’ homes, from libraries or council offices, even in town centres themselves – wherever wifi or 4g connections allow.

“As importantly, they will be able to access force systems and share intelligence in real-time – which means that information about a suspect or missing person can be shared across the county in seconds, rather than hours as it is currently.

“We estimate that providing these devices – properly connected to the systems we use – will save an average of an hour per officer per patrol. That’s the equivalent of putting an extra 200 officers on the streets.”

Following the investment from Police & Crime Commissioner John Dwyer the Constabulary is now assessing some of the products available to us from Samsung, HP and Lenovo, both for cost and for how well they match up to the needs of officers as they patrol our streets.

“I have long stated my desire for Cheshire Constabulary to be at the cutting edge of technology”, said John Dwyer, Police & Crime Commissioner.

“Through my investment in the Constabulary, we’re seeing how modern technology can be used to transform the way police officers work. By providing the latest tablets, we expect to see our officers spending more time in the community, which is precisely what the public want.

“I committed to enhance front-line policing for Cheshire and to use innovative technology to support a modern agile police force – the investment is another demonstration of how this is being delivered.”

The roll-out of mobile tablets is planned for later in 2016. It comes on the back of a six month pilot, which has resulted in a decision to procure Microsoft Windows 10 based tablets for ease of connectivity to police IT systems.

The force is currently reviewing potential tablet computers from some of the world’s biggest providers. Work is already underway in house to develop a range of applications that will enable officers to use back-office systems while on the move – as well as developing new ways of working that reduce bureaucracy and improve efficiency.