No discussion of critical issues in policing would be complete without at least a brief look at the impact of advancing technology on the field. Among the advances with which we are all familiar are such things as the increasing uses of computers, of 911 and reverse 911 phone services, of cell phones, of less-than-lethal weapons, and of video cameras in patrol vehicles. In addition, police continue to use Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to pinpoint the location of suspects and evidence and/or to assist in analyzing data to determine where crimes are occurring. All of these devices and technologies help the police become more effective and efficient in performing their duties.
While reviewing all recent technological innovations of the past decade is impossible in the limited framework of one lesson, we touched on several more interesting advances and some of their consequences. Remember, these advances in technology will affect the whole of society and will require a commitment on the part of professional police personnel to develop responsible information management policies for the future. The opportunities presented by instantaneous communication among police agencies at all levels and in diverse geographic areas are indeed exciting. Yet the challenges of developing a system in which information flows freely among agencies while reconciling the right to privacy with police needs to know will not be easily met. There is at least a chance that, as the gap between technology available to industry and that available to the police narrows, the possibility of an electronic ‘Big Brother’ society and the subsequent erosion of personal privacy rights will increase. For police chiefs, budgeting for these technological advances would be a significant concern. Some personnel may resist adopting new devices or software and feel stressed about learning how to use the tech quickly.
When considering where law enforcement is headed in the next five years and beyond, embracing technology is another key challenge. Innovations can happen quickly; name three of these new technologies you feel have the potential to help reduce crime and keep the community safe.
Then, discuss the following:
Do you feel Biometrics, such as hand-held scanners and facial recognition tools, should be used by the police? What may be two advantages and two disadvantages of using the technology?
Provide your thoughts on Gunshot Detectors, sensors, and mapping technologies that can detect gunshots within specific high-crime areas and dispatch the police without a call for service being received.
Provide your thoughts on using Police Drones, drones that can take photos of crime scenes and survey search areas. (However, they also see into areas people may expect privacy in.)
Do the costs and benefits warrant the use of this technology?
Provide your thoughts on the use of technology to reduce Vehicle Pursuit Darts, such as foam darts that can be released by police vehicles and attach to a vehicle, allowing officers to track their movements with GPS.
Are there any legal concerns with this type of technology?
Response should demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the ideas and concepts presented in the course by providing new thoughts and insights relating directly to this topic. Your response should reflect scholarly writing and current APA standards where appropriate.
