A GPS database can be used for a variety of different purposes and is an important part of law enforcement software. Primarily, database-driven GPS (Global Positioning System) devices are used for navigation and tracking in the civilian world. But, other data can be included in devices designed for police officers, detectives, parole officers and 911 operators.
For example, historical crime data can be stored in the devices available today. Although neighborhoods can and do change, identifying the trends (crime rates, incidence of violent crimes, incidence of hate crimes, etc.) and making the information available to officers and detectives patrolling the area can help them do their jobs.
Practically anyone would agree that the people responsible for keeping us safe should have access to the latest technology. A municipality or local government might not think that a GPS database is an essential or a worthwhile investment, but it can save lives.
Most police forces are already able to track vehicles in real time. They can determine the location of a car quickly. 911 operators, with the proper equipment, can see which cars are closest to the scene of a crime and dispatch them accordingly.
Other types of law enforcement software allows officers to access an individual’s arrest record from their vehicle. In the old days, an arrest would need to be made and a person would need to be taken into custody, before information concerning their records could be accessed. If it happened at night, a lot of waiting was involved.
During a chase, it may not be possible to use a navigation system, but once the chase is over, it can be used to find the quickest way back to the station, from wherever the officer may be. Paper street maps are relatively obsolete. Without a navigation system in their vehicles, officers could ultimately be “lost”.
Another type of law enforcement software that is being used more frequently combines GPS database technology with telemetry or telematics. Most people are familiar with ankle bracelets used to keep track of persons on parole or house arrest. GPS and telematics technology were used to create the bracelets.
The technologies are also being used in high crime areas, specifically in areas where there is a great deal of car theft. Bait cars can be equipped with cameras and tracking devices and placed in locations where theft can be expected. When the vehicle is stolen, officers can use the law enforcement software not only to find the vehicle, but also to deactivate the engine and lock the doors.
There are many other things that a GPS database can be used for. With a good designer and a little imagination, the possibilities are practically unlimited.
By: Tom Gruich
Posts Tagged ‘Crime Rates’
Car Insurance – GPS – The Way Forward?
November 11th, 2009
The technology and design of automobiles nowadays has made huge forward advances over the years.
Vehicles are now focusing on fuel economy and their impact on the environment. However, it is technology that can be transferred in and out of the vehicle that could make a difference to how much you pay.
As we become more reliant on our vehicles for everyday life, many remain disillusioned as to the rising cost of their insurance premiums, and it is usually younger drivers who bear the brunt of the blame.
Due to the stigma attached to younger drivers, which usually associates them with offences such as joyriding and car theft, many are increasingly worried that their actions could have an effect on the world of car insurance.
With under-25s feeling the pinch when searching for car insurance, many feel they are being punished due to the actions of a small percentage that choose to commit auto offences.
However, could GPS technology hold the key to not only bring down crime levels amongst youngsters, but also help lower the cost of our insurance premiums?
With plans to introduce GPS technology into vehicles, and some insurance companies looking to branch out into ‘pay-as-you-drive’ policies, soon your driving habits could help contribute to the cost of your premium.
Indeed, several provinces in Canada have already put such a scheme into place, using GPS ankle bracelets in order to keep track of the worst offenders when it comes to automobile incidents.
Through the use of alert systems that are activated when the offender crosses into an ‘exclusion zone’, the authorities are able to keep tabs on where offenders are and where they should be.
By contacting them by use of mobile phones – also fitted with tracking devices – when they step outside their boundaries, the chances of intervention before they commit further crimes are increased.
And the technology appears to be having an effect – both on crime rates and car insurance premiums – in the provinces that the technology has been introduced to.
By: David Collins
