Police-Writers.com, a website dedicated to listing state and local police officers who have authored books, added three writers of crime fiction.
Robert Ruble quit high school to join the United States Marine Corps (USMC), where he was hoping for Korea, but instead was selected to be a Drill Instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD), San Diego. Later he changed his specialty to Tank Crewman. He left the Marine Corps and joined the Tampa Police Department. After a few years as a police officer he re-enlisted in the Marine Corps and served a 20 year career, including two tours in Vietnam.
After retirement from the USMC, he worked for a variety of law enforcement agencies culminating his law enforcement career as the Chief of Police of the Kennesaw Police Department (Georgia). He was their chief from 1980 through 1986. He has written two thrillers - Have No Mercy and Black Rosebud: Have No Mercy II
George Galjan was born in 1942 in Berlin, Germany. In 1956, he immigrated to the United States with his family. After high school, he enlisted in the Navy. He served two tours in Vietnam and later transferred to the Navy Reserves. He retired from the Reserves with the rank of senior chief. In 1969, George Galjan joined the Cleveland Police Department. He retired in 1998, at the rank of lieutenant.
George Galjan’s book, Cops, Donuts and Murder, is a mystery set in the City of Cleveland. As one reviewer/reader remarked, “This is the best mystery book I've read for quite sometime. It is filled with twists and interesting characters. The ending was a total surprise. The book is written using dialog and it is so true-to-life that I couldn't put it down.”
Earl Kratzer is a retired Detective Sergeant from the Cleveland Police Department. During his career he worked on a number of interesting cases and is the recipient of the Rotary Valor Award for Heroism Beyond the Call of Duty. His book, My Baby, My Baby, is a classic police procedural that follows “a fictional account of a child abduction that is set in Cleveland, Ohio. The twists and turns that develop while the detectives are investigating this case, show the reader what actually occurs while following leads a criminal investigation.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 417 police officers (representing 182 police departments) and their 891 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Monday, March 26, 2007
A Look at Women Police Writers
March is Women’s History Month. Nearly 600 state and local police officers in the Untied States have written books. And, twenty-one of those police officers are women. Like their male counterparts, they have written fiction, autobiographies, academic texts and even poetry. Interestingly enough, the most successful writer of romantic fiction is a retired male motorcop. Put the motorcop aside for the moment and let’s take a brief tour of the history of women police officers as writers.
Women in Policing
There is some disagreement about who should be thought of as the first women police officer in the United States. In 1910, Alice Stebbin Wells joined the Los Angeles Police Department and was the first woman to be called a “Policewoman.” However, in 1905, Lola Baldwin was hired by Portland Police Department (Oregon), given somewhat limited police powers and put in charge of group of social workers.
It has been said that Baldwin was the first woman to have sworn authority. Still earlier, in 1893, Mary Owens was given the rank of Policeman in the Chicago Police Department. While Owens worked in the department 30 years, she had been given this title and job as the widow of a slain officer. At that time in our history, lacking today’s survivor benefits, some organizations took care of the police family by providing widows with jobs within the department.
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/look_women_police_writers.html
Women in Policing
There is some disagreement about who should be thought of as the first women police officer in the United States. In 1910, Alice Stebbin Wells joined the Los Angeles Police Department and was the first woman to be called a “Policewoman.” However, in 1905, Lola Baldwin was hired by Portland Police Department (Oregon), given somewhat limited police powers and put in charge of group of social workers.
It has been said that Baldwin was the first woman to have sworn authority. Still earlier, in 1893, Mary Owens was given the rank of Policeman in the Chicago Police Department. While Owens worked in the department 30 years, she had been given this title and job as the widow of a slain officer. At that time in our history, lacking today’s survivor benefits, some organizations took care of the police family by providing widows with jobs within the department.
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/look_women_police_writers.html
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Law Enforcement/Corrections Technology News Summary
NLECTC Law Enforcement & Corrections Technology News Summary
Thursday, March 22, 2007
"A.J. Police Going More High-Tech"
East Valley Tribune (AZ) (03/18/07); Redhage, Jill
A pair of new devices became operational on March 2 that will enable Apache Junction, Ariz., patrol officers to perform their jobs better. LiveScan allows electronic finger- and handprinting to be done, while Mug Shot Interface permits police to obtain, retain, and get mug shots, fingerprints, pictures of scars and tattoos, and additional information. The databases' information can be accessed by police officers and the court system. Police representative Jay Swart lauded Chief Glenn Walp's "great leadership" and technology focus in obtaining the new devices; in addition, Swart stated that Walp is responsible for the department's employment of CompStat, a computer information program installed a couple of months ago that handles statistics so police can locate trends and figure out crimes. The acquisition of LiveScan and Mug Shot Interface was paid for by a grant to Apache Junction from the Gild River Indian Community State-Shared Revenue Program. The technologies will assist police in keeping the correct suspects in custody, while the central databases will help police connect suspects to other crimes they have done. Since the technologies heighten accuracy in finding suspects, fewer innocent individuals will be kept in custody or sent to prison. Police added that the new technologies will reduce paperwork, meaning officers will have additional time to patrol the streets.
http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/86059
"Cameras Help Keep an Eye on Watts Complex"
Los Angeles Times (03/17/07) P. B4; Helfand, Duke
On March 16, city leaders in Los Angeles praised the implementation of seven surveillance cameras at the Jordan Downs housing project, noting the state-of-the-art equipment had already played a part in making the Watts complex more secure. The cameras, erected on utility polls, send images to three police stations in the region, permitting officers to keep continuous tabs on activity and respond more rapidly to events, according to police. Numerous other cameras will be set up on adjacent 103rd Street. Police stated the cameras were partly the reason for a decline in crime since the start of the year, although community leaders credited the drop to additional arrests and the creation of a citizens gang task force that has adopted a strong position against crime. The cameras have received varied reactions since they started appearing during the past year, with certain activists claiming the equipment breaches their privacy and others wondering whether the cameras prevent outsiders from carrying out crimes. Financing for the Jordan Downs crime-combating initiative comes from several sources, including the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and Motorola.
http://www.latimes.com/news
/printedition/california/la-me-l
ights17mar17,1,955805.story?co
ll=la-headlines-pe-california
"Ohio Hoping to Link All Courts on One Web Site"
Cleveland Plain Dealer (03/18/07); Fields, Reginald
Supporters of the Ohio Courts Network project hope to create a Web site that would contain documents from all 385 courts in the state, including city courts. This would let judges and attorneys know about the offenses of every criminal in the state regardless of whether the criminal moves to another county, says Chris Davey, representative for Chief Justice Thomas Moyer. The Ohio Supreme Court hopes to launch such a site within two years, but many issues would need to be resolved, such as the financial cost to communities, privacy, and what data must be supplied to the network. Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland has allocated $10.5 million for the project in his proposed state budget, but that figure might change in the wake of future legislative decisions. The network would ideally allow courts to find information effortlessly on every criminal and civil case from all 88 counties in Ohio, and the public might have limited access as well. Robert Stuart, the Ohio Supreme Court's director of information technology, says the Supreme Court would use its funds to appoint a vendor that would assist it in establishing the Web site within three months. After that, pilot projects would be deployed involving approximately 15 to 20 courts from across Ohio as well as other agencies such as the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. "I think it makes perfect sense to do it, but I think there will be a lot of issues to figure out because every one of us has a different case management system," says chief deputy of the Cuyahoga County clerk of courts Keith Hurley.
http://www.cleveland.com/news
/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/news/
1174208271212470.xml&coll=2
"Nothing But Net"
Monterey County Herald (03/16/07); Katsnelson, Alla
The police department in Greenfield, Calif., recently acquired two Super Talon NetGuns. The Talons shoot a 16-foot nylon net over 25 to 30 feet to entangle and immobilize a person. The net guns cost $678 each and require little training, according to police Chief Joe Grebmeier. Grebmeier said the Talons will not replace Tasers, which are carried by all Greenfield police, or other "less-lethal" weapons, but are part of an effort to adapt new technology to make officers safer and more productive. Grebmeier said the net guns will be carried by Greenfield's two sergeants in their cars, and will most likely be used when a perpetrator is running away.
http://www.montereyherald.com
/mld/montereyherald/living/com
munity/16918876.htm
"Pretty Soon, Prison Web Site Will Help You Locate Prisoners"
Charleston Daily Mail (WV) (03/16/07) P. 1A; Anderson, Justin D.
The West Virginia Division of Corrections has given the Dream Catcher computer company, based in Charleston, W.Va., a contract to overhaul the Web sites for the state's prisons. The new Web sites will look better and be easier to use, as well as allow users to access information on inmates, including mug shots, times and statuses of incarcerations, where the inmate is held, and the nature of the criminal charges. Commissioner Jim Rubenstein said he believes the state should post more information than inmate location and crime, and that officials are also asking various corrections departments what they would like to see improve on the site. Rubenstein said the project will cost between $50,000 and $75,000, but for what he wants to see on the site the final bill will probably be closer to $75,000. Dream Catcher will charge the state $75 an hour to work on the Web site, which should be completed by May 31.
http://www.dailymail.com
/story/News/+/2007031644/Prison
+Web+site+to+add+inmate+locator,+increase+usability
"State Attorney General Touts Online Sex Offender Updates"
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (03/16/07) P. C1; Slutsky, Abby
Allen County, Ind., currently has 520 sex offenders, and many citizens know they can go online to check offenders' residences. But citizens can also get email updates sent to them to inform them if a sex offender has moved nearby. The state's attorney general's office launched the Criminal Alert Network nearly a year ago, and since then, the Web site has sent out more than more than 100,000 email notifications to more than 5,000 subscribers, according to Indiana Attorney General Steve Carter. The network can also alert residents to whether a sex offender is employed nearby, he said recently at the City-County Building in Fort Wayne. To get the email notifications, a person needs to register their data at http://www.insor.org, said Carter. The state pays $12,000 annually to run the Web site, which Carter said is money well spent if even one crime is prevented by the site. Users of the system can also view a map of a particular area, including markers that indicate the residence or workplace of an offender. By placing a mouse pointer on the indicators, users can see a list of offenders at a particular address. The alerts are important because offenders' addresses change on a daily basis, said Cpl. Jeff Shimkus at the Allen County Sheriff's Department.
http://www.fortwayne.com
/mld/fortwayne/news/local/16916845.htm
"Paterson Will Add 30 Street Cameras"
Herald News (Passaic County, NJ) (03/15/07) P. C12; Feeney, Michael J.
An $875,110 request for surveillance cameras by Paterson, N.J.'s Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) Authority has been approved by the state. The money will be spent on buying and setting up the cameras, which "are going to be strategically placed within the Urban Enterprise Zone boundaries," UEZ director Jay Northrop said. Currently, 32 percent of the city has been identified as a zone, which indicates an area or business district that is under economic distress. Paterson already has 12 wireless outdoor cameras in areas with high crime that are within a mile of police headquarters. Law enforcement leaders forecast the cameras will help reduce crime as well as wrongful dumping. "We have dumping problems, and now we're going to have the evidence," says Lt. Anthony Traina with the Paterson Police Department. Officials expect the cameras will be functioning as early as Memorial Day weekend.
http://www.northjersey.com
/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnF
lZUVFeXk1NiZmZ2JlbDdmN3ZxZWVFRXl5
NzA5MzUzMCZ5cmlyeTdmNzE3Zjd2cWVlR
UV5eTM=
"A View of Ripon Surveillance"
Merced Sun-Star (CA) (03/14/07) P. 1; Jason, Scott
Livingston, Calif., Police Chief Bill Eldridge, along with the city's mayor, Gurpal Samra and Councilman Rodrigo Espinoza, visited nearby Ripon, Calif., on March 9 to learn about that city's wireless surveillance system. The system includes egg-size digital cameras and microphones mounted on Ripon's library, on street corners, above Highway 99, and in businesses that purchase the technology and connect with the police department. Ripon Police Department Chief Richard Bull has partially credited the system to holding crime steady in the 11,000-person city. Eldridge is hoping that a similar system will do the same in Livingston. Officials in Livingston are waiting on a proposal to install the system, which will likely be brought before the City Council for a vote within the next two months. If the Livingston City Council approves the installation of the wireless surveillance system, it will likely draw the criticism of the ACLU, which has said the cameras are an invasion of privacy and ineffective in reducing crime. http://www.mercedsunstar.com
/local/story/13370230p-13991310c.html
"Geospatial Data Sharing Comes of Age on Web"
Government Computer News (03/05/07); Wait, Patience
Geospatial data sets need baseline standards to guarantee interoperability, and such standards were publicly issued by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) in February. Director of the NGA's National Center for Geospatial Intelligence Standards (NCGIS) Mark DeMulder explained that standards for the entry, processing, and transmission of data, along with management of architectural issues, are necessitated by the many diverse interests embodied in the geospatial community, whose members include state and county government agencies that aggregate geospatial information, the 16 federal intelligence agencies, and law enforcement entities. NCGIS' role in developing the new standards is supplemented by compliance testing to ensure the reality of interoperability. The release of the standards was an affirmation of society's establishment of order on the physical world in terms of data via the formal intersection of global positioning systems, geographic information systems, remote sensing devices, and the Internet. The majority of the new standards address Web-enabled data, although DeMulder noted that they have yet to define the geospatial information domain. "The baseline connotation [means] this is the minimum we need for our service-oriented architecture," he explained. "There is one in the wings, a family of standards related to the portrayal of symbology, map symbols ... We're standardizing on graphic representations so that someone from DHS and someone from NGA and a state emergency response person, if they're looking at the same information, they can instantly recognize it."
http://www.gcn.com
/print/26_05/43219-1.html
"With Police Camera, It's Smile and Say 'Fees'"
Cleveland Plain Dealer (03/13/07) P. B1; Albrecht, Brian
In an effort to recover more parking-ticket fines and penalties, the Cleveland Police Department has begun using a system that scans license plates and checks them against a database of unpaid parking tickets. The system, called AutoVu Mobile, is being used to target drivers who owe more than $250 in unpaid fines and penalties and who had been notified twice about the debt. The use of the system has resulted in 57 cars being towed and $29,000 in penalties collected from October through February, according to George Yarborough of Cleveland Municipal Court. Other cities have also been using AutoVu to increase collection of parking fines. Sacramento, Calif.'s collection rate of parking tickets went from between 77 percent and 78 percent before AutoVu was used to "well over 80 percent" now, said Howard Chan, the city's parking services manager. In addition, the system has aided in the recovery of 50 stolen vehicles, he said. http://www.cleveland.com
/plaindealer/stories/index.ssf
?/base/cuyahoga/117377508
8225460.xml&coll=2
"Cameras Monitor Streets for Paterson Police"
Herald News (Passaic County, NJ) (03/13/07) P. B03; Feeney, Michael J.
Police Director Michael Walker said Paterson, N.J., may soon be adding more surveillance cameras to supplement the 12 wireless outdoor cameras that already operate in high-crime areas within a mile of the Police Department. Police officials recently met with the Urban Enterprise Zone Authority, which works to revitalize urban areas, and officials are expecting to receive nearly $1 million to install 30 new cameras to expand the surveillance program. The original 12 cameras were installed in June 2006 and January 2007, and have already helped in several investigations, including a homicide arrest. The cameras can easily be moved to different locations, and are watched around the clock by an officer. Each camera pans on a timed sequence, produces high-quality video, and allows police to zoom in on a street fight or a license plate. Walker likens the system to having one officer walking 12 beats. The cameras can view several blocks, and can be moved to a new location within two hours.
http://www.northjersey.com
/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnF
lZUVFeXkzJmZnYmVsN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXk3MDkyODEw
"Last Seen"
Saint Paul Pioneer Press (03/13/07) P. 1A; Rosario, Ruben
There are at least 100,000 sex offenders in the United States who are required to notify law enforcement when they change their address but have failed to do so. Until recently, it has been difficult for law enforcement agencies--many of which have 10 or fewer officers--to find these sex offenders, due to the fact that conducting manhunts drains their resources and manpower. But thanks to a law passed by Congress last year, there is now a federal agency comprised of data mining analysts that tracks fugitive sex offenders at the national level. The sex offenders tracking unit has access to a number of resources that many small law enforcement agencies do not have, such as analysts who sophisticatedly surf the Internet, public database searches, and other techniques that may be used while criminal investigators simultaneously track credit card use, utility bill payments, or driver's license registrations. Those tools have proven to be successful in tracking down missing sex offenders. Within days of asking for help from the federal sex offenders tracking unit, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension's Predatory Offender Registration and Tracking Program received packets containing information that led to the location and the arrests of Michael Hiltwein and Zachery Hielscher, two sex offenders who had been missing for at least two years.
http://www.twincities.com
/mld/twincities/news/local/16890835.htm
"Coming Soon to Video: Suspects in Northampton; County Tests System Enabling Judges to Arraign People From Home"
Allentown Morning Call (03/10/07) P. B1; Suarez, Kelly-Anne
District judges in Northampton County, Pa., gathered on March 9, to test a new webcam system that will be placed into the homes and offices of 15 judges. The webcams are part of a $140,000 initiative to make the county more technologically savvy, and will allow the judges to conduct late night court business from home, rather than having to drive in as they currently do. In Monroe County, Pa., four district judges have had their homes outfitted with videoconferencing systems, and Lehigh County officials are in the process of setting up videoconferencing for arraignments and a central booking station, that should be ready by late spring or early summer. Being able to conduct necessary, off-hours court business not only saves judges the hassle of having to drive in late at night, sometimes as many as 10 times an evening, but it also settles safety concerns for judges who live significant distances from work. http://www.mcall.com/
"Police May Get New Computer System"
Hartford Courant (03/01/07) P. B5; Kovner, Josh
The Hartford, Conn., police department today manually files police reports using typewriters, pens, paper forms, and an archaic computer system, but the local government is expected to approve a purchase of a new computer system in March 2007. The city plans to purchase a new system from Hunt Computer Design for $400,000, and the city most likely will sell bonds in March 2008 to cover the cost. Police Chief Lynn Baldoni and others have championed this change for a few years, and Baldoni hopes installation will begin this summer. The new system will enable police officers to file reports from computers in their vehicles, rather than go to booking with each suspect and fill out paperwork manually. The new system will fill out duplicate information across forms automatically, and enable police dispatchers to transmit information to squad car computers at the same time as they announce a dispatch call. Baldoni describes her department's current system as "basically pathetic."
http://www.courant.com
/news/local/mr/middletow
n/hc-midtech301.artmar01,0,7394372.story
"Pin the Tail on the Speeder"
St. Louis Post-Dispatch (02/23/07); Kravitz, Derek
Missouri state legislators propose bills that would make new "tack-and-track" technology less expensive for police departments. The technology aims to corral fleeing suspects without putting nearby drivers in danger by using a GPS-tracked projectile dart to attach to and then keep tabs on the criminal's car. In Missouri, 32 of the 54 people who died in criminal-pursuit-related crashes between 2000 and 2005 were unconnected with the chase. Critics of the legislation, which now proceeds to public committee hearings, argue that the device is expensive and ineffective. With a price tag of over $1,200 per police vehicle, the St. Louis police force would pay $360,000 to outfit their fleet; Kansas city, $421,000. Eric Winebrenner, a Kansas City police captain, doubts the department pursues enough criminals for the technology to be "of good use," and other officers wonder how helpful the device becomes if a suspect leaves the car behind. Dr. Geoff Alpert, a University of South Carolina criminologist, believes the device is best suited for chases in high-density areas or highways. Recent departmental changes to policy pursuit policy include restrictions prohibiting chases unless there is little risk, or unless the crime in question is a felony; spike strips are also used to puncture car tires. http://www.stltoday.com
/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/
story/E6363CF2006E76358
625728B0007D6B0?OpenDocument
"Legal Implications for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Offenders in Corrections: Risks and Opportunities"
Sheriff (02/07) Vol. 59, No. 1, P. 11; Baker, Eileen D.
Communicating with a deaf or hard-of-hearing offender can be difficult for security officers and law enforcement officials, but current litigation establishes some best practices to ensure effective communication. A qualified interpreter, closed captioning for television and videos, inmate orientation videos with sign language, and captioning and TTY/TTD devices must be readily available. Equal access to TTY/TTD use for the offender and deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors must be provided, and extended visitation and call time must be provided for the Relay System, a national toll free service which helps people with hearing or speech difficulties place and receive calls. For offender requests to access programs, services, activities, and in case of medical emergencies a list of interpreter referral agencies should be available, along with an understanding of agency policies and fees. Housing, custody staff, and the court needs to be notified of the communication style used by the deaf or hard-of-hearing offender. Staff should be trained on the topic of deaf and hard-of-hearing Offenders in Corrections, with all staff focusing on sensitivity to the disability, developing policies and procedures, and telecommunication devices (TTY/TTD) as mandated by the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). Additionally, an ADA coordinator may be appointed to handle all inmate concerns specific to compliance. http://www.sheriffs.org
"What's New in Specialty Police Vehicles?"
Police and Security News (02/07) Vol. 23, No. 1, P. 23; Siuru, Bill
There are a number of new specialized vehicles available to law enforcement for use in "non-traditional applications" such as community policing or patrolling remote and rugged areas. One of those new vehicles is the Segway Personal Transporter i2 and x2 series. Both feature a technology called LeanSteer, which allows the rider to turn the vehicle by pivoting the whole assembly or "frame" in the direction they want to turn. The LeanSteer frame and handlebar tilt left and right as the body leans in the direction of desired travel. Although both series share common features such as LeanSteer, there are some differences. For instance, the i2 Police vehicle is designed specifically for the needs of police officers and security personnel, with features such as an accessory bar for mounting lights, sirens, a GPS unit, and other accessories. The x2 Police offers those features as well as low pressure tires which cushion the ride on bumpy surfaces and a continuous center rib to provide a smooth ride on paved surfaces. Another new vehicle is the T3 series, which is particularly well-suited for patrolling campuses, parking lots, airports, malls, parks, beaches, city streets, and historical sites. The vehicle features an integrated LED lighting system for the headlights, brake lights, and running lights; sirens; a lockable glove box for storage; and an optional GPS tracking system. Finally, Rhino Off-Road Industries has begun offering the "Search and Rescue" RTV for law enforcement agencies who need a vehicle for use in very rugged, off-road environments. Accessories such as equipment racks, work trailers, winches, GPS systems, emergency lights, radios, and canvas tops can be added to the vehicle for police and search work.
http://www.policeandsecuritynews.com
"Autonomous Robotics for Law Enforcement"
Law Enforcement Technology (02/07) Vol. 34, No. 2, P. 66; Weiss, Joseph
Aside from potentially armed criminals, meth labs can present officers with a multitude of dangerous situations, particularly if the lab is in a dangerous cooking mode with cyanide gas present. Automated robots, that can be given and execute and assigned task without needed to be directly controlled by an officer, may soon provide an excellent, safe way for officers to enter a suspected meth lab. Using sensors robots would be able to detect if there are any people in the lab and if they are armed or agitated, as well as test the air in the lab for the presence of hazardous materials, all autonomously, allowing the officers to maintain situational awareness. Automated robots could also be used to continuously monitor a site or even potentially protect a injured officer. A number of questions remain as to how the robot will distinguish between friendly civilians and hostile suspects, or if the robot should be equipped with any type of weaponry. Some suggest that automated robots would be used in a similar manner as a K-9, acting as an assistant to the officer but more than a remote controlled tool.
http://www.officer.com/magazines/let/
Thursday, March 22, 2007
"A.J. Police Going More High-Tech"
East Valley Tribune (AZ) (03/18/07); Redhage, Jill
A pair of new devices became operational on March 2 that will enable Apache Junction, Ariz., patrol officers to perform their jobs better. LiveScan allows electronic finger- and handprinting to be done, while Mug Shot Interface permits police to obtain, retain, and get mug shots, fingerprints, pictures of scars and tattoos, and additional information. The databases' information can be accessed by police officers and the court system. Police representative Jay Swart lauded Chief Glenn Walp's "great leadership" and technology focus in obtaining the new devices; in addition, Swart stated that Walp is responsible for the department's employment of CompStat, a computer information program installed a couple of months ago that handles statistics so police can locate trends and figure out crimes. The acquisition of LiveScan and Mug Shot Interface was paid for by a grant to Apache Junction from the Gild River Indian Community State-Shared Revenue Program. The technologies will assist police in keeping the correct suspects in custody, while the central databases will help police connect suspects to other crimes they have done. Since the technologies heighten accuracy in finding suspects, fewer innocent individuals will be kept in custody or sent to prison. Police added that the new technologies will reduce paperwork, meaning officers will have additional time to patrol the streets.
http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/86059
"Cameras Help Keep an Eye on Watts Complex"
Los Angeles Times (03/17/07) P. B4; Helfand, Duke
On March 16, city leaders in Los Angeles praised the implementation of seven surveillance cameras at the Jordan Downs housing project, noting the state-of-the-art equipment had already played a part in making the Watts complex more secure. The cameras, erected on utility polls, send images to three police stations in the region, permitting officers to keep continuous tabs on activity and respond more rapidly to events, according to police. Numerous other cameras will be set up on adjacent 103rd Street. Police stated the cameras were partly the reason for a decline in crime since the start of the year, although community leaders credited the drop to additional arrests and the creation of a citizens gang task force that has adopted a strong position against crime. The cameras have received varied reactions since they started appearing during the past year, with certain activists claiming the equipment breaches their privacy and others wondering whether the cameras prevent outsiders from carrying out crimes. Financing for the Jordan Downs crime-combating initiative comes from several sources, including the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and Motorola.
http://www.latimes.com/news
/printedition/california/la-me-l
ights17mar17,1,955805.story?co
ll=la-headlines-pe-california
"Ohio Hoping to Link All Courts on One Web Site"
Cleveland Plain Dealer (03/18/07); Fields, Reginald
Supporters of the Ohio Courts Network project hope to create a Web site that would contain documents from all 385 courts in the state, including city courts. This would let judges and attorneys know about the offenses of every criminal in the state regardless of whether the criminal moves to another county, says Chris Davey, representative for Chief Justice Thomas Moyer. The Ohio Supreme Court hopes to launch such a site within two years, but many issues would need to be resolved, such as the financial cost to communities, privacy, and what data must be supplied to the network. Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland has allocated $10.5 million for the project in his proposed state budget, but that figure might change in the wake of future legislative decisions. The network would ideally allow courts to find information effortlessly on every criminal and civil case from all 88 counties in Ohio, and the public might have limited access as well. Robert Stuart, the Ohio Supreme Court's director of information technology, says the Supreme Court would use its funds to appoint a vendor that would assist it in establishing the Web site within three months. After that, pilot projects would be deployed involving approximately 15 to 20 courts from across Ohio as well as other agencies such as the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. "I think it makes perfect sense to do it, but I think there will be a lot of issues to figure out because every one of us has a different case management system," says chief deputy of the Cuyahoga County clerk of courts Keith Hurley.
http://www.cleveland.com/news
/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/news/
1174208271212470.xml&coll=2
"Nothing But Net"
Monterey County Herald (03/16/07); Katsnelson, Alla
The police department in Greenfield, Calif., recently acquired two Super Talon NetGuns. The Talons shoot a 16-foot nylon net over 25 to 30 feet to entangle and immobilize a person. The net guns cost $678 each and require little training, according to police Chief Joe Grebmeier. Grebmeier said the Talons will not replace Tasers, which are carried by all Greenfield police, or other "less-lethal" weapons, but are part of an effort to adapt new technology to make officers safer and more productive. Grebmeier said the net guns will be carried by Greenfield's two sergeants in their cars, and will most likely be used when a perpetrator is running away.
http://www.montereyherald.com
/mld/montereyherald/living/com
munity/16918876.htm
"Pretty Soon, Prison Web Site Will Help You Locate Prisoners"
Charleston Daily Mail (WV) (03/16/07) P. 1A; Anderson, Justin D.
The West Virginia Division of Corrections has given the Dream Catcher computer company, based in Charleston, W.Va., a contract to overhaul the Web sites for the state's prisons. The new Web sites will look better and be easier to use, as well as allow users to access information on inmates, including mug shots, times and statuses of incarcerations, where the inmate is held, and the nature of the criminal charges. Commissioner Jim Rubenstein said he believes the state should post more information than inmate location and crime, and that officials are also asking various corrections departments what they would like to see improve on the site. Rubenstein said the project will cost between $50,000 and $75,000, but for what he wants to see on the site the final bill will probably be closer to $75,000. Dream Catcher will charge the state $75 an hour to work on the Web site, which should be completed by May 31.
http://www.dailymail.com
/story/News/+/2007031644/Prison
+Web+site+to+add+inmate+locator,+increase+usability
"State Attorney General Touts Online Sex Offender Updates"
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (03/16/07) P. C1; Slutsky, Abby
Allen County, Ind., currently has 520 sex offenders, and many citizens know they can go online to check offenders' residences. But citizens can also get email updates sent to them to inform them if a sex offender has moved nearby. The state's attorney general's office launched the Criminal Alert Network nearly a year ago, and since then, the Web site has sent out more than more than 100,000 email notifications to more than 5,000 subscribers, according to Indiana Attorney General Steve Carter. The network can also alert residents to whether a sex offender is employed nearby, he said recently at the City-County Building in Fort Wayne. To get the email notifications, a person needs to register their data at http://www.insor.org, said Carter. The state pays $12,000 annually to run the Web site, which Carter said is money well spent if even one crime is prevented by the site. Users of the system can also view a map of a particular area, including markers that indicate the residence or workplace of an offender. By placing a mouse pointer on the indicators, users can see a list of offenders at a particular address. The alerts are important because offenders' addresses change on a daily basis, said Cpl. Jeff Shimkus at the Allen County Sheriff's Department.
http://www.fortwayne.com
/mld/fortwayne/news/local/16916845.htm
"Paterson Will Add 30 Street Cameras"
Herald News (Passaic County, NJ) (03/15/07) P. C12; Feeney, Michael J.
An $875,110 request for surveillance cameras by Paterson, N.J.'s Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) Authority has been approved by the state. The money will be spent on buying and setting up the cameras, which "are going to be strategically placed within the Urban Enterprise Zone boundaries," UEZ director Jay Northrop said. Currently, 32 percent of the city has been identified as a zone, which indicates an area or business district that is under economic distress. Paterson already has 12 wireless outdoor cameras in areas with high crime that are within a mile of police headquarters. Law enforcement leaders forecast the cameras will help reduce crime as well as wrongful dumping. "We have dumping problems, and now we're going to have the evidence," says Lt. Anthony Traina with the Paterson Police Department. Officials expect the cameras will be functioning as early as Memorial Day weekend.
http://www.northjersey.com
/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnF
lZUVFeXk1NiZmZ2JlbDdmN3ZxZWVFRXl5
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UV5eTM=
"A View of Ripon Surveillance"
Merced Sun-Star (CA) (03/14/07) P. 1; Jason, Scott
Livingston, Calif., Police Chief Bill Eldridge, along with the city's mayor, Gurpal Samra and Councilman Rodrigo Espinoza, visited nearby Ripon, Calif., on March 9 to learn about that city's wireless surveillance system. The system includes egg-size digital cameras and microphones mounted on Ripon's library, on street corners, above Highway 99, and in businesses that purchase the technology and connect with the police department. Ripon Police Department Chief Richard Bull has partially credited the system to holding crime steady in the 11,000-person city. Eldridge is hoping that a similar system will do the same in Livingston. Officials in Livingston are waiting on a proposal to install the system, which will likely be brought before the City Council for a vote within the next two months. If the Livingston City Council approves the installation of the wireless surveillance system, it will likely draw the criticism of the ACLU, which has said the cameras are an invasion of privacy and ineffective in reducing crime. http://www.mercedsunstar.com
/local/story/13370230p-13991310c.html
"Geospatial Data Sharing Comes of Age on Web"
Government Computer News (03/05/07); Wait, Patience
Geospatial data sets need baseline standards to guarantee interoperability, and such standards were publicly issued by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) in February. Director of the NGA's National Center for Geospatial Intelligence Standards (NCGIS) Mark DeMulder explained that standards for the entry, processing, and transmission of data, along with management of architectural issues, are necessitated by the many diverse interests embodied in the geospatial community, whose members include state and county government agencies that aggregate geospatial information, the 16 federal intelligence agencies, and law enforcement entities. NCGIS' role in developing the new standards is supplemented by compliance testing to ensure the reality of interoperability. The release of the standards was an affirmation of society's establishment of order on the physical world in terms of data via the formal intersection of global positioning systems, geographic information systems, remote sensing devices, and the Internet. The majority of the new standards address Web-enabled data, although DeMulder noted that they have yet to define the geospatial information domain. "The baseline connotation [means] this is the minimum we need for our service-oriented architecture," he explained. "There is one in the wings, a family of standards related to the portrayal of symbology, map symbols ... We're standardizing on graphic representations so that someone from DHS and someone from NGA and a state emergency response person, if they're looking at the same information, they can instantly recognize it."
http://www.gcn.com
/print/26_05/43219-1.html
"With Police Camera, It's Smile and Say 'Fees'"
Cleveland Plain Dealer (03/13/07) P. B1; Albrecht, Brian
In an effort to recover more parking-ticket fines and penalties, the Cleveland Police Department has begun using a system that scans license plates and checks them against a database of unpaid parking tickets. The system, called AutoVu Mobile, is being used to target drivers who owe more than $250 in unpaid fines and penalties and who had been notified twice about the debt. The use of the system has resulted in 57 cars being towed and $29,000 in penalties collected from October through February, according to George Yarborough of Cleveland Municipal Court. Other cities have also been using AutoVu to increase collection of parking fines. Sacramento, Calif.'s collection rate of parking tickets went from between 77 percent and 78 percent before AutoVu was used to "well over 80 percent" now, said Howard Chan, the city's parking services manager. In addition, the system has aided in the recovery of 50 stolen vehicles, he said. http://www.cleveland.com
/plaindealer/stories/index.ssf
?/base/cuyahoga/117377508
8225460.xml&coll=2
"Cameras Monitor Streets for Paterson Police"
Herald News (Passaic County, NJ) (03/13/07) P. B03; Feeney, Michael J.
Police Director Michael Walker said Paterson, N.J., may soon be adding more surveillance cameras to supplement the 12 wireless outdoor cameras that already operate in high-crime areas within a mile of the Police Department. Police officials recently met with the Urban Enterprise Zone Authority, which works to revitalize urban areas, and officials are expecting to receive nearly $1 million to install 30 new cameras to expand the surveillance program. The original 12 cameras were installed in June 2006 and January 2007, and have already helped in several investigations, including a homicide arrest. The cameras can easily be moved to different locations, and are watched around the clock by an officer. Each camera pans on a timed sequence, produces high-quality video, and allows police to zoom in on a street fight or a license plate. Walker likens the system to having one officer walking 12 beats. The cameras can view several blocks, and can be moved to a new location within two hours.
http://www.northjersey.com
/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnF
lZUVFeXkzJmZnYmVsN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXk3MDkyODEw
"Last Seen"
Saint Paul Pioneer Press (03/13/07) P. 1A; Rosario, Ruben
There are at least 100,000 sex offenders in the United States who are required to notify law enforcement when they change their address but have failed to do so. Until recently, it has been difficult for law enforcement agencies--many of which have 10 or fewer officers--to find these sex offenders, due to the fact that conducting manhunts drains their resources and manpower. But thanks to a law passed by Congress last year, there is now a federal agency comprised of data mining analysts that tracks fugitive sex offenders at the national level. The sex offenders tracking unit has access to a number of resources that many small law enforcement agencies do not have, such as analysts who sophisticatedly surf the Internet, public database searches, and other techniques that may be used while criminal investigators simultaneously track credit card use, utility bill payments, or driver's license registrations. Those tools have proven to be successful in tracking down missing sex offenders. Within days of asking for help from the federal sex offenders tracking unit, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension's Predatory Offender Registration and Tracking Program received packets containing information that led to the location and the arrests of Michael Hiltwein and Zachery Hielscher, two sex offenders who had been missing for at least two years.
http://www.twincities.com
/mld/twincities/news/local/16890835.htm
"Coming Soon to Video: Suspects in Northampton; County Tests System Enabling Judges to Arraign People From Home"
Allentown Morning Call (03/10/07) P. B1; Suarez, Kelly-Anne
District judges in Northampton County, Pa., gathered on March 9, to test a new webcam system that will be placed into the homes and offices of 15 judges. The webcams are part of a $140,000 initiative to make the county more technologically savvy, and will allow the judges to conduct late night court business from home, rather than having to drive in as they currently do. In Monroe County, Pa., four district judges have had their homes outfitted with videoconferencing systems, and Lehigh County officials are in the process of setting up videoconferencing for arraignments and a central booking station, that should be ready by late spring or early summer. Being able to conduct necessary, off-hours court business not only saves judges the hassle of having to drive in late at night, sometimes as many as 10 times an evening, but it also settles safety concerns for judges who live significant distances from work. http://www.mcall.com/
"Police May Get New Computer System"
Hartford Courant (03/01/07) P. B5; Kovner, Josh
The Hartford, Conn., police department today manually files police reports using typewriters, pens, paper forms, and an archaic computer system, but the local government is expected to approve a purchase of a new computer system in March 2007. The city plans to purchase a new system from Hunt Computer Design for $400,000, and the city most likely will sell bonds in March 2008 to cover the cost. Police Chief Lynn Baldoni and others have championed this change for a few years, and Baldoni hopes installation will begin this summer. The new system will enable police officers to file reports from computers in their vehicles, rather than go to booking with each suspect and fill out paperwork manually. The new system will fill out duplicate information across forms automatically, and enable police dispatchers to transmit information to squad car computers at the same time as they announce a dispatch call. Baldoni describes her department's current system as "basically pathetic."
http://www.courant.com
/news/local/mr/middletow
n/hc-midtech301.artmar01,0,7394372.story
"Pin the Tail on the Speeder"
St. Louis Post-Dispatch (02/23/07); Kravitz, Derek
Missouri state legislators propose bills that would make new "tack-and-track" technology less expensive for police departments. The technology aims to corral fleeing suspects without putting nearby drivers in danger by using a GPS-tracked projectile dart to attach to and then keep tabs on the criminal's car. In Missouri, 32 of the 54 people who died in criminal-pursuit-related crashes between 2000 and 2005 were unconnected with the chase. Critics of the legislation, which now proceeds to public committee hearings, argue that the device is expensive and ineffective. With a price tag of over $1,200 per police vehicle, the St. Louis police force would pay $360,000 to outfit their fleet; Kansas city, $421,000. Eric Winebrenner, a Kansas City police captain, doubts the department pursues enough criminals for the technology to be "of good use," and other officers wonder how helpful the device becomes if a suspect leaves the car behind. Dr. Geoff Alpert, a University of South Carolina criminologist, believes the device is best suited for chases in high-density areas or highways. Recent departmental changes to policy pursuit policy include restrictions prohibiting chases unless there is little risk, or unless the crime in question is a felony; spike strips are also used to puncture car tires. http://www.stltoday.com
/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/
story/E6363CF2006E76358
625728B0007D6B0?OpenDocument
"Legal Implications for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Offenders in Corrections: Risks and Opportunities"
Sheriff (02/07) Vol. 59, No. 1, P. 11; Baker, Eileen D.
Communicating with a deaf or hard-of-hearing offender can be difficult for security officers and law enforcement officials, but current litigation establishes some best practices to ensure effective communication. A qualified interpreter, closed captioning for television and videos, inmate orientation videos with sign language, and captioning and TTY/TTD devices must be readily available. Equal access to TTY/TTD use for the offender and deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors must be provided, and extended visitation and call time must be provided for the Relay System, a national toll free service which helps people with hearing or speech difficulties place and receive calls. For offender requests to access programs, services, activities, and in case of medical emergencies a list of interpreter referral agencies should be available, along with an understanding of agency policies and fees. Housing, custody staff, and the court needs to be notified of the communication style used by the deaf or hard-of-hearing offender. Staff should be trained on the topic of deaf and hard-of-hearing Offenders in Corrections, with all staff focusing on sensitivity to the disability, developing policies and procedures, and telecommunication devices (TTY/TTD) as mandated by the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). Additionally, an ADA coordinator may be appointed to handle all inmate concerns specific to compliance. http://www.sheriffs.org
"What's New in Specialty Police Vehicles?"
Police and Security News (02/07) Vol. 23, No. 1, P. 23; Siuru, Bill
There are a number of new specialized vehicles available to law enforcement for use in "non-traditional applications" such as community policing or patrolling remote and rugged areas. One of those new vehicles is the Segway Personal Transporter i2 and x2 series. Both feature a technology called LeanSteer, which allows the rider to turn the vehicle by pivoting the whole assembly or "frame" in the direction they want to turn. The LeanSteer frame and handlebar tilt left and right as the body leans in the direction of desired travel. Although both series share common features such as LeanSteer, there are some differences. For instance, the i2 Police vehicle is designed specifically for the needs of police officers and security personnel, with features such as an accessory bar for mounting lights, sirens, a GPS unit, and other accessories. The x2 Police offers those features as well as low pressure tires which cushion the ride on bumpy surfaces and a continuous center rib to provide a smooth ride on paved surfaces. Another new vehicle is the T3 series, which is particularly well-suited for patrolling campuses, parking lots, airports, malls, parks, beaches, city streets, and historical sites. The vehicle features an integrated LED lighting system for the headlights, brake lights, and running lights; sirens; a lockable glove box for storage; and an optional GPS tracking system. Finally, Rhino Off-Road Industries has begun offering the "Search and Rescue" RTV for law enforcement agencies who need a vehicle for use in very rugged, off-road environments. Accessories such as equipment racks, work trailers, winches, GPS systems, emergency lights, radios, and canvas tops can be added to the vehicle for police and search work.
http://www.policeandsecuritynews.com
"Autonomous Robotics for Law Enforcement"
Law Enforcement Technology (02/07) Vol. 34, No. 2, P. 66; Weiss, Joseph
Aside from potentially armed criminals, meth labs can present officers with a multitude of dangerous situations, particularly if the lab is in a dangerous cooking mode with cyanide gas present. Automated robots, that can be given and execute and assigned task without needed to be directly controlled by an officer, may soon provide an excellent, safe way for officers to enter a suspected meth lab. Using sensors robots would be able to detect if there are any people in the lab and if they are armed or agitated, as well as test the air in the lab for the presence of hazardous materials, all autonomously, allowing the officers to maintain situational awareness. Automated robots could also be used to continuously monitor a site or even potentially protect a injured officer. A number of questions remain as to how the robot will distinguish between friendly civilians and hostile suspects, or if the robot should be equipped with any type of weaponry. Some suggest that automated robots would be used in a similar manner as a K-9, acting as an assistant to the officer but more than a remote controlled tool.
http://www.officer.com/magazines/let/
Saturday, March 17, 2007
NLECTC Law Enforcement & Corrections Technology News Summary
NLECTC
Thursday, March 15, 2007
"Device Tracks Infirm People"
Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel (FL) (03/11/07) P. 2B; Lesson, Nicole T.
The Margate, Fla., Police Department has teamed up with the Alzheimer's Family Center for Project Lifesaver, which gives people with Alzheimer's disease, autism, or other disorders a battery-operated bracelet equipped with a transmitter to wear on their wrist or ankle. Law enforcement officials in Margate are hoping the bracelets, which emit an automatic tracking signal every second, will make it easier for them to find and identify a person who was wandered away from a home or care center. According to Project Lifesaver, the average amount of time it takes to recover someone wearing one of the bracelets is 30 minutes. In addition to Margate, the Alzheimer's Family Center works with the Broward County Sheriff's Office to offer Project Lifesaver in Tamarac, Lauderdale Lakes, and Pompano Beach.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news
/local/broward/sfl-cflmarlifesaver11
mar11,0,1255933.story
"Police Have New Weapon In Fight on Narcotics"
High Point Enterprise (03/10/07); Kimbrough, Pat
The police department in High Point, N.C., recently became the first law enforcement agency in the nation to buy a device known as the NTX 2000, which can test substances for the presence of cocaine, marijuana, heroin, and methamphetamine in only a few minutes using 3D florescent technology. The NTX 2000 is made by Nar Test Technologies and costs about $30,000. High Point police evidence technician Jane Aswell said the device has received nothing but positive feedback from officers and the district attorney, and has definitely improved the time it takes to get drug test results back, which previously took an average of 14 months at the state lab. Currently the NTX 2000 is not recognized by the courts as an acceptable method to test for drugs, and High Point police submit samples tested on the machine to Nar Test's forensics lab to verify results in case the evidence is challenged by defendants in the future. Aswell said officials are waiting for a case involving the NTX 2000 to be challenged in court so a ruling can determine if it is admissible. So far all cases involving the device have ended in a plea or a dismissal, but all results indicate that the machine is accurate, according to Aswell.
http://www.hpe.com/eebrowser/f
rame/2_5t.dev/psfsrv/search_swi
she.php?pSetup=highpoint&date=&
search=High%20Point%20Police%
20drugs&mode=new&hres=572&o
perator=AND&categoria=&todate=
20070310&fromdate=20070310&e
dition=The%20High%20Point%20Enterprise#
"U.S. Halts Imaginary Cubans in Security Drill"
Reuters (03/08/07); Sutton, Jane
The Department of Homeland Security on Wednesday kicked off "Operation Vigilant Sentry," a huge two-day mock exercise aimed at protecting the Southeast United States from a massive influx of illegal immigrants from the Caribbean, some of whom are carrying a mysterious virus. In particular, the exercise is aimed at preparing authorities for a likely mass migration of Cubans once Fidel Castro dies and his government collapses. "We do recognize that Cuba is certainly an area where we must be prepared," said Coast Guard Rear Adm. David Kunkel, director of the Homeland Security southeastern task force. "Since 9/11, it is essential that we work diligently to protect our borders." Some 325 agents from 85 law enforcement agencies participated in Wednesday's simulated exercise, which centered on intercepting 2,000 imaginary Cuban migrants who attempt to reach the shores of Florida. The simulation involved some 26 Coast Guard Cutters, but in reality only four helicopters and six boats participated, in order to reduce the costs of fuel and manpower. Information sharing was a key component to the exercise, involving coordination among the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Broward Sheriff's Office, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
http://www.reuters.com/article/dom
esticNews/idUSN3725175120070308
"Keeping Tabs: Tarrant County Uses Several Devices to Track Probationers"
Fort Worth Star-Telegram (03/08/07); Mcdonald, Melody
The Fort-Worth Star Telegram recently uncovered several of the more creative probation conditions mandated by Tarrant County, Texas, Community Supervision and Corrections Department judges. Judge Sharen Wilson, for instance, has required defendants to erect a sign in their house that states "a person on probation for a child sex offense lives here" and once forced a man to place a bumper sticker on his vehicle that states "a person on probation for a sex offense drives this vehicle." Meanwhile, state District Judge Wayne Salvant once instructed a man found guilty of drunk driving and killing a woman to carry a photo of her and her two children in his wallet and to repay her family for her funeral costs, and counseling for her two sons. Separately, the Secured Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring (SCRAM) device is utilized on individuals who have been accused or found guilty of an alcohol-associated offense, such as drunk driving or intoxication manslaughter, and ordered to not drink. Attached to an ankle, the bracelet monitors for alcohol each hour, regardless of the location of the defendant. If there is proof of an alcohol violation or that the bracelet has been tampered with, case managers at the Alcohol Monitoring Systems inform the probation department.
http://www.star-telegram.com
"Camera to Record Domestic Violence"
The State (SC) (03/08/07) P. A1; Jackson, Shalama C.
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety's Violence Against Women Project has given the West Columbia Police Department a grant to purchase a camera that an officer will wear to record evidence when investigating domestic violence cases. The camera, which has a lens the size of a button, records everything the officer hears and sees, including approaching the scene, talking to victims, suspects, and witnesses, and transporting a suspect to jail. Police officials hope the camera will reduce the number of repeat incidences of domestic violence. However, civil rights advocates such as the ACLU are concerned about the use of the camera. "It will be a documented resource of what has occurred, but what happens to the video after each incident, who has access to it and its storage are concerns," said ACLU's Joyce Cheeks. The West Columbia Police Department currently has no policies for how the cameras and video will be used, though officials are currently in the process of considering rules for use and storage. http://www.thestate.com/mld
/thestate/news/16859699.htm
"High-Tech Touches Help to Transform Slidell Jail"
Times-Picayune (New Orleans) (03/07/07) P. 1; Rioux, Paul
On March 6, Slidell, La., Police Chief Freddy Drennan introduced a revamped, high-tech police station that now offers an electronic fingerprinting machine that inventories mouth swabs employed for DNA testing. Digital surveillance cameras watch every section of the redesigned Slidell City Jail, providing live footage to 12 flat-panel monitors erected in a row over the holding cells. In addition, video cameras have been installed to take care of misdemeanor arraignments without having to move prisoners down the street to Slidell City Court. The police station's secure areas have electronic door locks that document the movements of workers, who have to swipe their identification badges to access doors. The restructuring expanded the floor plan to provide staff with additional workspace and to make the station easier to access by the public. A glass wall has been erected at the records department entrance, where individuals file police reports. The renovation was funded by a $1.37 million grant from the federal Bureau of Justice Assistance that will also finance a two-story facility for offices and an evidence room to be constructed next to the station later this year.
http://www.nola.com/news/t-p
/metro/index.ssf?/base/news-
20/1173250008246120.xml&coll=1
"Commissioners Consider Electronic Monitoring"
High Point Enterprise (03/10/07); Nivens, David
Guilford County, N.C., Commissioners may implement an electronic house arrest program for nonviolent offenders. Democratic Commissioner Skip Alston noted that the program could cost as low as $13 per day for those awaiting trial. Alston is serving on a committee that is considering approaches for reducing the inmate population at the Greensboro Jail. Participants in the program would wear an electronic device that allows police officers to monitor their whereabouts. Alston said the program could provide the county in excess of $40 per day in savings for each inmate.
http://www.hpe.com
"Sheriff's Office Introduces Home Monitoring"
Roanoke Times (VA) (03/06/07); Raboteau, Albert
Instead of serving time at the Montgomery County Jail in Christiansburg, Va., certain nonviolent offenders will now have the choice of being tracked through ankle bracelets that are GPS-equipped. An objective of the program is to assist with overcrowding at the facility, which is constructed for 118 inmates but had around 180 in 2006. Prison authorities are currently examining their inmate rolls to determine who might be eligible for the program. In addition, the bracelets provide county judges a new alternative in sentencing individuals. To date, the sheriff's office is tracking three individuals with the bracelets, two of whom had been imprisoned for not make child-support payments. With this program, "we require them to work as a condition of [staying out of prison] and make sure that they are paying their child support. That way it's a win-win for everyone," notes Capt. Robert Hall, who oversees the prison. Deputy Derrick Stamper is the sole deputy assigned to the program on a full-time basis, which restricts the number of individuals that can be monitored to around 25.
http://www.roanoke.com
/news/nrv/wb/107422
"Sentry in the Sky"
Times-Picayune (New Orleans) (03/06/07) P. M1; Harvey, Christine
The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway near New Orleans, La., has just completed installation of 29 cameras along its 24-mile toll bridge and toll plaza. Some cameras have even been installed under the bridge spans as part of a $1.3 million technology overhaul project. The camera system will help bridge operators respond better to traffic incidents, stranded cars, and loose debris, and to look for suspects driving cars on the run, says Lake Pontchartrain Causeway general manager Robert Lambert. The Causeway designates two employees to monitor camera feeds during morning and evening rush hours using two flat screen televisions, while also monitoring the police radio. Causeway operations director Debbie Lopreore has two screens in her office for 24-hour access to 360-degree video monitoring. Each camera has 1.5 miles of range and can zoom to see an object as small as a call-box number.
http://www.nola.com
/news/t-p/metro/inde
x.ssf?/base/news-20/117
3163751150860.xml&coll=1
"Rights Group Worried Over Taser Use"
Monterey County Herald (CA) (03/06/07); Briscoe, Andre
The Civil Rights Coalition of Monterey County, Calif., wants the Monterey County grand jury to issue stronger regulations on the use of Taser stun guns by law enforcement officials, including better officer training and requiring a social worker to be present during situations involving mentally ill suspects. Coalition representatives said they are concerned about the city's "blanket" endorsement of the grand jury's support of the use of stun guns, particularly the panel's finding that it is appropriate to use a stun gun to subdue suspects who are on illicit drugs, alcohol, or are mentally ill. The civil rights group did support the recommendation that all law enforcement agencies use a new video device, called Taser Cam, to record audio and video before, during, and after the use of a stun gun. Few of the 12 law enforcement agencies in the county have Taser Cams, but more are considering acquiring them. The Marina City Council was asked to purchase 33 new Tasers and Taser Cams for its police officers.
http://www.montereyhe
rald.com/mld/montereyh
erald/news/16842903.htm
"Police Endorse Microscopic Anti-Theft System"
Pasadena Star-News (CA) (03/06/07); Gurton, Mary Frances
The Sierra Madre, Calif., police department has endorsed the use of high-tech, nearly invisible tracking dots that can be placed on objects to reveal an ownership code when magnified. Police Chief Marilyn Diaz says she is promoting of use of adhesive tracking dots at local Neighborhood Watch meetings and local Chambers of Commerce. The DataDot authentication system offers a worldwide database of dot codes and their rightful owners, and a package of 500 dots costs only $24.95. Though data dots are too small to be noticed, they are clearly visible under blacklight, and could help officers identity stolen property, for instance, during a routine traffic stop. DataDot Technologies USA development director Scott McKeever says the use of data dots in Australia in BMW and Audi vehicles steered criminals away from these cars to easier targets. Diaz first read about data dots in a February 2007 issue of Popular Science and has since embraced them.
http://www.pasadenastarnews.com
/news/ci_5370033
"Police Departments Turning to YouTube to Catch Suspects"
Associated Press (03/05/07); Tucker, Eric
The Franklin Police Department in Massachusetts used YouTube.com to identify two men involved in credit card fraud. Police had surveillance video showing the young men making purchases with the stolen credit cards, which prompted officer Brian Johnson to email the image to YouTube.com. A number of police departments have also displayed videos on YouTube.com to help identify suspects. The video provided to YouTube.com by the Franklin Police Department was accessed thousands of times, though Johnson notes the case was solved using traditional investigative methods. However, other police departments have successfully used the Web site to generate leads. Police observers say the display of surveillance footage on the Internet in hopes of solving criminal cases is a natural progression of investigative techniques.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com
/html/businesstechnology/2003
601118_btcrimeyoutube05.html?
syndication=rss
"Police Could Wear CCTV Cameras in Their Hats"
Norwich Evening News (03/05/07); Walsh, Peter
Miniature CCTV cameras could be planted on the headgear of police walking the streets of Norwich, England, under terms of a proposal to cut down on vandalism and other anti-social behaviors. Areas like Sunderland, Cleveland, Plymouth, and Nottingham have already tested the idea, resulting in lower incidents of violence and minor crimes. "It means people can walk around recording what's going on and gathering evidence," says Steve Morphew, head of the Norwich City Council. "It's being used in Nottingham and is an incredibly powerful tool because youngsters don't misbehave when they are being recorded." The camera tests have helped convict at least a dozen offenders in various parts of the country for crimes, including assaults and break-ins.
http://www.eveningnews24
.co.uk/content/News/story.a
spx?brand=ENOnline&category=N
ews&tBrand=enonline&tCate
gory=news&itemid=NOED05%
20Mar%202007%2009%3A48%3A41%3A110
"How to Lift Fingerprints"
Police (02/07) Vol. 31, No. 2, P. 24; Spraggs, David
Boulder Police Department Investigator David Spraggs is an expert in crime scene investigation, and he lists his recommendations for identifying, collecting, and processing fingerprints. Ambient temperature, surface conditions, and humidity can impact the ability to lift prints. Officers should be equipped with a fingerprint kit that contains a fingerprint brush, lifting tape, fingerprint cards, and black and bi-chromatic powder. Spraggs uses a fiberglass brush because its characteristics are good for even powder distribution and using the spinning technique. He also prefers basic black fingerprint powder for obtaining prints from most surfaces, such as glass and the majority of metal. Polyethylene tape is better for circular surfaces. Investigators can often obtain excellent results by using less powder rather than more. Spraggs says his best advice when applying tape to circular surfaces is to press down on the tape using a credit card controlled in a smooth constant motion. He uses the same technique when applying the tape onto the glossy side of the fingerprint backing card.
http://www.policemag.com
"Law Enforcement Online Announces Creation of National Dental Image Repository"
Sheriff (02/07) Vol. 59, No. 1, P. 12; Koestner, Lesley G.
Law Enforcement Online has announced the creation of the National Dental Image Repository (NDIR) site. The site will be an image repository for dental images related to Missing, Unidentified, and Wanted persons' records housed in the National Crime Information Center. Law enforcement agencies can submit encoded information from the dental records of Missing, Unidentified, and Wanted persons to NDIR, which will compare the submitted information to the current records and generate a list of potential matches. The new site is a much faster way of comparing dental records, which was quite time-consuming because the inquiring agency had to contact the agency with the potential matching record to obtain information, and retrieve and review physical copies of dental records. NDIR provides direct access to digital images of dental records and allows law enforcement agencies to upload supplemental dental images, eliminating the need to contact the original agency and retrieve physical records.
http://www.sheriffs.org
"LISA Augments Amber Alerts in Ohio"
Police and Security News (02/07) Vol. 23, No. 1, P. 9
Police in Lorain County, Ohio, have begun using a new public safety tool called LISA, or Lorain Information Sharing Agreement, to supplement the Amber Alert system. LISA, which is the first system of its kind in Ohio, distributes electronic pictures, video surveillance images, audio, and other information to police within a matter of minutes. With the Amber Alert system, it often takes time for alerts and news bulletins to be issued for missing children and wanted subjects in other crimes. LISA also sends the same information it sends to law enforcement to the public via computer, cell phone, or PDA. Citizens can also use LISA to anonymously post crime information. Since its launch, roughly 2,000 people per day connect to the LISA site, and 50 have registered for alerts. In LISA's first week, it sent 130 alerts to police in the county. Thirty-five of those alerts were also sent out to the public. http://www.policeandsecuritynews.com
"Officer Gadget"
Popular Science (02/07) Vol. 270, No. 2, P. 38; Kargl, Reinhard
The Los Angeles Sheriff's Department (LASD), the largest sheriff's department in the country, is considered trailblazing in its work with sophisticated, futuristic law enforcement weapons. The research done LASD's technology unit has become especially important as terrorism and changing times introduce new threats and challenges that are altering the role played by the law enforcement officers. The LASD's Technology Exploration Unit was established in 1996 by Commander Sid Heal, who previously worked as gear procurer in Somalia as a reservist in the U.S. Marine Corps, but the unit is often plagued by staffing and funding shortages. Instead of purchasing futuristic weapons, Heal serves as a consultant to contractors, government officials, and private inventors by testing out the weapons while they are still in development. The LASD ends up adopting less than 2 percent of the weapons it investigates because the weapons must be safe, reliable, practical, easy to use, and reasonably priced. Some weapons being investigated by the LASD include bulletproof S.W.A.T. trucks; strobe lamps that cause temporary blindness; GPS tags that affix to vehicles after being launched; flashlights capable of ejecting pepper spray; nonlethal machine guns; extra-loud bullhorns; radar systems that can see through walls; spy balls equipped with cameras that transmit video images to officers; sensors able to detect the origin of a gun blast; and lightweight airborne surveillance craft.
http://www.popsci.com/popsci
/technology/d215da2834b2011
0vgnvcm1000004eecbccdrcrd.html
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
"Device Tracks Infirm People"
Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel (FL) (03/11/07) P. 2B; Lesson, Nicole T.
The Margate, Fla., Police Department has teamed up with the Alzheimer's Family Center for Project Lifesaver, which gives people with Alzheimer's disease, autism, or other disorders a battery-operated bracelet equipped with a transmitter to wear on their wrist or ankle. Law enforcement officials in Margate are hoping the bracelets, which emit an automatic tracking signal every second, will make it easier for them to find and identify a person who was wandered away from a home or care center. According to Project Lifesaver, the average amount of time it takes to recover someone wearing one of the bracelets is 30 minutes. In addition to Margate, the Alzheimer's Family Center works with the Broward County Sheriff's Office to offer Project Lifesaver in Tamarac, Lauderdale Lakes, and Pompano Beach.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news
/local/broward/sfl-cflmarlifesaver11
mar11,0,1255933.story
"Police Have New Weapon In Fight on Narcotics"
High Point Enterprise (03/10/07); Kimbrough, Pat
The police department in High Point, N.C., recently became the first law enforcement agency in the nation to buy a device known as the NTX 2000, which can test substances for the presence of cocaine, marijuana, heroin, and methamphetamine in only a few minutes using 3D florescent technology. The NTX 2000 is made by Nar Test Technologies and costs about $30,000. High Point police evidence technician Jane Aswell said the device has received nothing but positive feedback from officers and the district attorney, and has definitely improved the time it takes to get drug test results back, which previously took an average of 14 months at the state lab. Currently the NTX 2000 is not recognized by the courts as an acceptable method to test for drugs, and High Point police submit samples tested on the machine to Nar Test's forensics lab to verify results in case the evidence is challenged by defendants in the future. Aswell said officials are waiting for a case involving the NTX 2000 to be challenged in court so a ruling can determine if it is admissible. So far all cases involving the device have ended in a plea or a dismissal, but all results indicate that the machine is accurate, according to Aswell.
http://www.hpe.com/eebrowser/f
rame/2_5t.dev/psfsrv/search_swi
she.php?pSetup=highpoint&date=&
search=High%20Point%20Police%
20drugs&mode=new&hres=572&o
perator=AND&categoria=&todate=
20070310&fromdate=20070310&e
dition=The%20High%20Point%20Enterprise#
"U.S. Halts Imaginary Cubans in Security Drill"
Reuters (03/08/07); Sutton, Jane
The Department of Homeland Security on Wednesday kicked off "Operation Vigilant Sentry," a huge two-day mock exercise aimed at protecting the Southeast United States from a massive influx of illegal immigrants from the Caribbean, some of whom are carrying a mysterious virus. In particular, the exercise is aimed at preparing authorities for a likely mass migration of Cubans once Fidel Castro dies and his government collapses. "We do recognize that Cuba is certainly an area where we must be prepared," said Coast Guard Rear Adm. David Kunkel, director of the Homeland Security southeastern task force. "Since 9/11, it is essential that we work diligently to protect our borders." Some 325 agents from 85 law enforcement agencies participated in Wednesday's simulated exercise, which centered on intercepting 2,000 imaginary Cuban migrants who attempt to reach the shores of Florida. The simulation involved some 26 Coast Guard Cutters, but in reality only four helicopters and six boats participated, in order to reduce the costs of fuel and manpower. Information sharing was a key component to the exercise, involving coordination among the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Broward Sheriff's Office, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
http://www.reuters.com/article/dom
esticNews/idUSN3725175120070308
"Keeping Tabs: Tarrant County Uses Several Devices to Track Probationers"
Fort Worth Star-Telegram (03/08/07); Mcdonald, Melody
The Fort-Worth Star Telegram recently uncovered several of the more creative probation conditions mandated by Tarrant County, Texas, Community Supervision and Corrections Department judges. Judge Sharen Wilson, for instance, has required defendants to erect a sign in their house that states "a person on probation for a child sex offense lives here" and once forced a man to place a bumper sticker on his vehicle that states "a person on probation for a sex offense drives this vehicle." Meanwhile, state District Judge Wayne Salvant once instructed a man found guilty of drunk driving and killing a woman to carry a photo of her and her two children in his wallet and to repay her family for her funeral costs, and counseling for her two sons. Separately, the Secured Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring (SCRAM) device is utilized on individuals who have been accused or found guilty of an alcohol-associated offense, such as drunk driving or intoxication manslaughter, and ordered to not drink. Attached to an ankle, the bracelet monitors for alcohol each hour, regardless of the location of the defendant. If there is proof of an alcohol violation or that the bracelet has been tampered with, case managers at the Alcohol Monitoring Systems inform the probation department.
http://www.star-telegram.com
"Camera to Record Domestic Violence"
The State (SC) (03/08/07) P. A1; Jackson, Shalama C.
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety's Violence Against Women Project has given the West Columbia Police Department a grant to purchase a camera that an officer will wear to record evidence when investigating domestic violence cases. The camera, which has a lens the size of a button, records everything the officer hears and sees, including approaching the scene, talking to victims, suspects, and witnesses, and transporting a suspect to jail. Police officials hope the camera will reduce the number of repeat incidences of domestic violence. However, civil rights advocates such as the ACLU are concerned about the use of the camera. "It will be a documented resource of what has occurred, but what happens to the video after each incident, who has access to it and its storage are concerns," said ACLU's Joyce Cheeks. The West Columbia Police Department currently has no policies for how the cameras and video will be used, though officials are currently in the process of considering rules for use and storage. http://www.thestate.com/mld
/thestate/news/16859699.htm
"High-Tech Touches Help to Transform Slidell Jail"
Times-Picayune (New Orleans) (03/07/07) P. 1; Rioux, Paul
On March 6, Slidell, La., Police Chief Freddy Drennan introduced a revamped, high-tech police station that now offers an electronic fingerprinting machine that inventories mouth swabs employed for DNA testing. Digital surveillance cameras watch every section of the redesigned Slidell City Jail, providing live footage to 12 flat-panel monitors erected in a row over the holding cells. In addition, video cameras have been installed to take care of misdemeanor arraignments without having to move prisoners down the street to Slidell City Court. The police station's secure areas have electronic door locks that document the movements of workers, who have to swipe their identification badges to access doors. The restructuring expanded the floor plan to provide staff with additional workspace and to make the station easier to access by the public. A glass wall has been erected at the records department entrance, where individuals file police reports. The renovation was funded by a $1.37 million grant from the federal Bureau of Justice Assistance that will also finance a two-story facility for offices and an evidence room to be constructed next to the station later this year.
http://www.nola.com/news/t-p
/metro/index.ssf?/base/news-
20/1173250008246120.xml&coll=1
"Commissioners Consider Electronic Monitoring"
High Point Enterprise (03/10/07); Nivens, David
Guilford County, N.C., Commissioners may implement an electronic house arrest program for nonviolent offenders. Democratic Commissioner Skip Alston noted that the program could cost as low as $13 per day for those awaiting trial. Alston is serving on a committee that is considering approaches for reducing the inmate population at the Greensboro Jail. Participants in the program would wear an electronic device that allows police officers to monitor their whereabouts. Alston said the program could provide the county in excess of $40 per day in savings for each inmate.
http://www.hpe.com
"Sheriff's Office Introduces Home Monitoring"
Roanoke Times (VA) (03/06/07); Raboteau, Albert
Instead of serving time at the Montgomery County Jail in Christiansburg, Va., certain nonviolent offenders will now have the choice of being tracked through ankle bracelets that are GPS-equipped. An objective of the program is to assist with overcrowding at the facility, which is constructed for 118 inmates but had around 180 in 2006. Prison authorities are currently examining their inmate rolls to determine who might be eligible for the program. In addition, the bracelets provide county judges a new alternative in sentencing individuals. To date, the sheriff's office is tracking three individuals with the bracelets, two of whom had been imprisoned for not make child-support payments. With this program, "we require them to work as a condition of [staying out of prison] and make sure that they are paying their child support. That way it's a win-win for everyone," notes Capt. Robert Hall, who oversees the prison. Deputy Derrick Stamper is the sole deputy assigned to the program on a full-time basis, which restricts the number of individuals that can be monitored to around 25.
http://www.roanoke.com
/news/nrv/wb/107422
"Sentry in the Sky"
Times-Picayune (New Orleans) (03/06/07) P. M1; Harvey, Christine
The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway near New Orleans, La., has just completed installation of 29 cameras along its 24-mile toll bridge and toll plaza. Some cameras have even been installed under the bridge spans as part of a $1.3 million technology overhaul project. The camera system will help bridge operators respond better to traffic incidents, stranded cars, and loose debris, and to look for suspects driving cars on the run, says Lake Pontchartrain Causeway general manager Robert Lambert. The Causeway designates two employees to monitor camera feeds during morning and evening rush hours using two flat screen televisions, while also monitoring the police radio. Causeway operations director Debbie Lopreore has two screens in her office for 24-hour access to 360-degree video monitoring. Each camera has 1.5 miles of range and can zoom to see an object as small as a call-box number.
http://www.nola.com
/news/t-p/metro/inde
x.ssf?/base/news-20/117
3163751150860.xml&coll=1
"Rights Group Worried Over Taser Use"
Monterey County Herald (CA) (03/06/07); Briscoe, Andre
The Civil Rights Coalition of Monterey County, Calif., wants the Monterey County grand jury to issue stronger regulations on the use of Taser stun guns by law enforcement officials, including better officer training and requiring a social worker to be present during situations involving mentally ill suspects. Coalition representatives said they are concerned about the city's "blanket" endorsement of the grand jury's support of the use of stun guns, particularly the panel's finding that it is appropriate to use a stun gun to subdue suspects who are on illicit drugs, alcohol, or are mentally ill. The civil rights group did support the recommendation that all law enforcement agencies use a new video device, called Taser Cam, to record audio and video before, during, and after the use of a stun gun. Few of the 12 law enforcement agencies in the county have Taser Cams, but more are considering acquiring them. The Marina City Council was asked to purchase 33 new Tasers and Taser Cams for its police officers.
http://www.montereyhe
rald.com/mld/montereyh
erald/news/16842903.htm
"Police Endorse Microscopic Anti-Theft System"
Pasadena Star-News (CA) (03/06/07); Gurton, Mary Frances
The Sierra Madre, Calif., police department has endorsed the use of high-tech, nearly invisible tracking dots that can be placed on objects to reveal an ownership code when magnified. Police Chief Marilyn Diaz says she is promoting of use of adhesive tracking dots at local Neighborhood Watch meetings and local Chambers of Commerce. The DataDot authentication system offers a worldwide database of dot codes and their rightful owners, and a package of 500 dots costs only $24.95. Though data dots are too small to be noticed, they are clearly visible under blacklight, and could help officers identity stolen property, for instance, during a routine traffic stop. DataDot Technologies USA development director Scott McKeever says the use of data dots in Australia in BMW and Audi vehicles steered criminals away from these cars to easier targets. Diaz first read about data dots in a February 2007 issue of Popular Science and has since embraced them.
http://www.pasadenastarnews.com
/news/ci_5370033
"Police Departments Turning to YouTube to Catch Suspects"
Associated Press (03/05/07); Tucker, Eric
The Franklin Police Department in Massachusetts used YouTube.com to identify two men involved in credit card fraud. Police had surveillance video showing the young men making purchases with the stolen credit cards, which prompted officer Brian Johnson to email the image to YouTube.com. A number of police departments have also displayed videos on YouTube.com to help identify suspects. The video provided to YouTube.com by the Franklin Police Department was accessed thousands of times, though Johnson notes the case was solved using traditional investigative methods. However, other police departments have successfully used the Web site to generate leads. Police observers say the display of surveillance footage on the Internet in hopes of solving criminal cases is a natural progression of investigative techniques.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com
/html/businesstechnology/2003
601118_btcrimeyoutube05.html?
syndication=rss
"Police Could Wear CCTV Cameras in Their Hats"
Norwich Evening News (03/05/07); Walsh, Peter
Miniature CCTV cameras could be planted on the headgear of police walking the streets of Norwich, England, under terms of a proposal to cut down on vandalism and other anti-social behaviors. Areas like Sunderland, Cleveland, Plymouth, and Nottingham have already tested the idea, resulting in lower incidents of violence and minor crimes. "It means people can walk around recording what's going on and gathering evidence," says Steve Morphew, head of the Norwich City Council. "It's being used in Nottingham and is an incredibly powerful tool because youngsters don't misbehave when they are being recorded." The camera tests have helped convict at least a dozen offenders in various parts of the country for crimes, including assaults and break-ins.
http://www.eveningnews24
.co.uk/content/News/story.a
spx?brand=ENOnline&category=N
ews&tBrand=enonline&tCate
gory=news&itemid=NOED05%
20Mar%202007%2009%3A48%3A41%3A110
"How to Lift Fingerprints"
Police (02/07) Vol. 31, No. 2, P. 24; Spraggs, David
Boulder Police Department Investigator David Spraggs is an expert in crime scene investigation, and he lists his recommendations for identifying, collecting, and processing fingerprints. Ambient temperature, surface conditions, and humidity can impact the ability to lift prints. Officers should be equipped with a fingerprint kit that contains a fingerprint brush, lifting tape, fingerprint cards, and black and bi-chromatic powder. Spraggs uses a fiberglass brush because its characteristics are good for even powder distribution and using the spinning technique. He also prefers basic black fingerprint powder for obtaining prints from most surfaces, such as glass and the majority of metal. Polyethylene tape is better for circular surfaces. Investigators can often obtain excellent results by using less powder rather than more. Spraggs says his best advice when applying tape to circular surfaces is to press down on the tape using a credit card controlled in a smooth constant motion. He uses the same technique when applying the tape onto the glossy side of the fingerprint backing card.
http://www.policemag.com
"Law Enforcement Online Announces Creation of National Dental Image Repository"
Sheriff (02/07) Vol. 59, No. 1, P. 12; Koestner, Lesley G.
Law Enforcement Online has announced the creation of the National Dental Image Repository (NDIR) site. The site will be an image repository for dental images related to Missing, Unidentified, and Wanted persons' records housed in the National Crime Information Center. Law enforcement agencies can submit encoded information from the dental records of Missing, Unidentified, and Wanted persons to NDIR, which will compare the submitted information to the current records and generate a list of potential matches. The new site is a much faster way of comparing dental records, which was quite time-consuming because the inquiring agency had to contact the agency with the potential matching record to obtain information, and retrieve and review physical copies of dental records. NDIR provides direct access to digital images of dental records and allows law enforcement agencies to upload supplemental dental images, eliminating the need to contact the original agency and retrieve physical records.
http://www.sheriffs.org
"LISA Augments Amber Alerts in Ohio"
Police and Security News (02/07) Vol. 23, No. 1, P. 9
Police in Lorain County, Ohio, have begun using a new public safety tool called LISA, or Lorain Information Sharing Agreement, to supplement the Amber Alert system. LISA, which is the first system of its kind in Ohio, distributes electronic pictures, video surveillance images, audio, and other information to police within a matter of minutes. With the Amber Alert system, it often takes time for alerts and news bulletins to be issued for missing children and wanted subjects in other crimes. LISA also sends the same information it sends to law enforcement to the public via computer, cell phone, or PDA. Citizens can also use LISA to anonymously post crime information. Since its launch, roughly 2,000 people per day connect to the LISA site, and 50 have registered for alerts. In LISA's first week, it sent 130 alerts to police in the county. Thirty-five of those alerts were also sent out to the public. http://www.policeandsecuritynews.com
"Officer Gadget"
Popular Science (02/07) Vol. 270, No. 2, P. 38; Kargl, Reinhard
The Los Angeles Sheriff's Department (LASD), the largest sheriff's department in the country, is considered trailblazing in its work with sophisticated, futuristic law enforcement weapons. The research done LASD's technology unit has become especially important as terrorism and changing times introduce new threats and challenges that are altering the role played by the law enforcement officers. The LASD's Technology Exploration Unit was established in 1996 by Commander Sid Heal, who previously worked as gear procurer in Somalia as a reservist in the U.S. Marine Corps, but the unit is often plagued by staffing and funding shortages. Instead of purchasing futuristic weapons, Heal serves as a consultant to contractors, government officials, and private inventors by testing out the weapons while they are still in development. The LASD ends up adopting less than 2 percent of the weapons it investigates because the weapons must be safe, reliable, practical, easy to use, and reasonably priced. Some weapons being investigated by the LASD include bulletproof S.W.A.T. trucks; strobe lamps that cause temporary blindness; GPS tags that affix to vehicles after being launched; flashlights capable of ejecting pepper spray; nonlethal machine guns; extra-loud bullhorns; radar systems that can see through walls; spy balls equipped with cameras that transmit video images to officers; sensors able to detect the origin of a gun blast; and lightweight airborne surveillance craft.
http://www.popsci.com/popsci
/technology/d215da2834b2011
0vgnvcm1000004eecbccdrcrd.html
This article was sponsored by criminal justice online; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
My Daddy is Gone
This story actually begins on December 13, 2000, in a south Texas prison 50 miles southeast of San Antonio. Where seven violent inmates, two of them convicted murderers would soon overpower a guard tower, confiscate an arsenal of weapons with ammo and make a daring escape in a white prison vehicle. A couple of days later near Houston, Texas, two of the escapees would rob a radio shack store for police scanners. For eleven days, they would evade detection by any law enforcement officer.
READ ON
READ ON
The Last Watch
It's now dark outside as you take your unit out on patrol to guard your beat. The night is starting off quiet when 1/2 way thru your shift, the radio blares SHOTS FIRED. You hear the radio number it's your friend, your heart grows icy cold with fear. I can not stop the pain and the anger - it is blinding my eyes, but I have to keep my cool. There is a criminal on the loose who needs to be caught.
READ ON
READ ON
We Take an Oath, to Protect & Serve
When you threaten or take someone's life in your hands, it becomes our job to make peace or make an arrest. In a split second, the police officer on the scene can become a victim while attempting to contain and control a violent domestic situation or a hostile criminal who refuses to be arrested. In any situation we must always be alert, perceptive and ready to act. We know if we don't, we could lose our life in a split second - all in the line of duty. And what happens to our immediate family left behind?
READ ON
READ ON
Why We are Not Mourned
On the other hand, why don't people line the streets to say goodbye to emergency responders, is it not our brothers and sisters who put there innocent lives on the line day in and day out? Sure we work a dangerous profession. For many public safety families, to serve and protect is a family tradition, like it was for my family.
READ ON
READ ON
The Hazards of Directing Traffic
Directing traffic may be the least understood or ignored risk/hazard facing emergency services professionals? Consider the threat posed by today's distracted driver, and the aggressive tendencies of immature drivers. All too often, these kinds of drivers are responsible for a majority of traffic collisions. Today's public safety officer while directing traffic must be at their best, keenly focused and aware of what is around them, and never turning their back on close by traffic. When you least expect a problem, along comes the out-of-control DUI or a speeding, reckless driver and you're life could be over. Since 1998, 31 law enforcement officers in America alone have been hit and killed by motor vehicles. Do you believe we may have a safety problem for our personnel during traffic control?
READ ON
READ ON
Friday, March 16, 2007
Lone Grey Wolf's Thunder
My eyes have grown cold, cold as the ice of winter. Dark as the darkness of night, how can I forgive, how can I forget? Can I ever be free from the bitterness of that fateful October 22nd night. I was 32 years old, when a man with eyes black as ink, decided my wishes were not to be obeyed. Why was it me, why was my joy of life, and my badge taken in the prime of my life?
READ ON
READ ON
An Open Letter to my Daddy:
I can write in my police story draft for hours on end, but when it comes time to write something about you daddy. Words are difficult to express my life long feelings of love for you. Well, here goes anyway, I can’t wait any longer, as your stay with us may be limited because of your life threatening illness.
READ ON
READ ON
Good Bye my Partner...my Friend
The first time I pulled up as your backup, I saw that little girl holding your hand looking so glad that a bear like you is bringing her to safety. That was the first time I saw your hidden gentle side, being a brute of a man who always commanded respect on his beat.
READ ON
READ ON
Losing your identity
Is being retired stress or stress free?
I do not know how others feel I just know how I feel. Being retired is not a fun life. I miss the job, the adrenalin rush from call to call, and the lull when all was quiet. To me working the night shift was best. It is when all the good stuff happened.
READ ON
I do not know how others feel I just know how I feel. Being retired is not a fun life. I miss the job, the adrenalin rush from call to call, and the lull when all was quiet. To me working the night shift was best. It is when all the good stuff happened.
READ ON
Trooperdom and other stories
Police-Writers.com, a website dedicated to listing state and local police officers who have authored books added police officers from Massachusetts and Georgia.
David W. Moran was a trooper for the Massachusetts State Police Department for over twenty years. A former college athlete, he holds graduate degrees from the Rockefeller School, the State University of New York and the Blake Law Center at Western New England College. Now an attorney, David W. Moran is now a member of the state and federal bar and practices law in Somerville, Massachusetts. His book is entitled Trooper. According to one Amazon reader/review, “This book is a great lazy afternoon read. If you have an interest in Law Enforcement, the author does a wonderful job of describing "anything could happen" events in the world of Trooperdom. An easy-to-follow, straight from the heart book.”
Dillard H. Hughes started his career in law enforcement with the University of Georgia Campus Police in 1983. He went on to serve as a patrolman for the former City of Athens police Department. In 1987, Dillard joined the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Department in Lawrenceville, Georgia where he has served for the last 14 years. He is currently a Lieutenant and former Watch Commander. Most recently, he has been assigned as an operations supervisor in the Detention Division on the evening watch. Dillard Hughes attended the University of Georgia and majored in English/Education. His career began as a way to pay for his education as a teacher but turned into a full time job that has now spanned over eighteen years.
Dillard H. Hughes’ novel, The Nash Chronicles, is about “A seventeen-year veteran with the Athens Police Department is brutally murdered while investigating an open door at a closed business. Lieutenant Alton Nash investigates and uncovers corrupt officers, a nasty drug lord, and does battle with a Mafia assassin.”
Will Cordes is a retired captain from the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office (Georgia) and a retired state agent with the Montana Department of Justice. He is a graduate of the 170th session of the FBI Academy and has written for The Single Shot Exchange, The Police Times and Tactical Shooting magazines. Will Cordes is the author of two novels, A Man Adrift and A Step to Far.
According to the book description of Will Cordes’ A Step to Far, “Matheson Draper ruled a global business empire. His shiny black trucks, planes, and ships traveled the far reaches of the world. A remorseless sexual deviate, he went to great lengths to promote and expand his corporate interests. But sometimes a man's power can corrupt more than just himself. Todd Milton, state agent for the Montana Criminal Investigation Bureau, was no stranger to murder investigations, but who would want to kill one of the world's richest men? Or maybe it might be easier to figure out who wouldn't.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 413 police officers (representing 179 police departments) and their 885 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
David W. Moran was a trooper for the Massachusetts State Police Department for over twenty years. A former college athlete, he holds graduate degrees from the Rockefeller School, the State University of New York and the Blake Law Center at Western New England College. Now an attorney, David W. Moran is now a member of the state and federal bar and practices law in Somerville, Massachusetts. His book is entitled Trooper. According to one Amazon reader/review, “This book is a great lazy afternoon read. If you have an interest in Law Enforcement, the author does a wonderful job of describing "anything could happen" events in the world of Trooperdom. An easy-to-follow, straight from the heart book.”
Dillard H. Hughes started his career in law enforcement with the University of Georgia Campus Police in 1983. He went on to serve as a patrolman for the former City of Athens police Department. In 1987, Dillard joined the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Department in Lawrenceville, Georgia where he has served for the last 14 years. He is currently a Lieutenant and former Watch Commander. Most recently, he has been assigned as an operations supervisor in the Detention Division on the evening watch. Dillard Hughes attended the University of Georgia and majored in English/Education. His career began as a way to pay for his education as a teacher but turned into a full time job that has now spanned over eighteen years.
Dillard H. Hughes’ novel, The Nash Chronicles, is about “A seventeen-year veteran with the Athens Police Department is brutally murdered while investigating an open door at a closed business. Lieutenant Alton Nash investigates and uncovers corrupt officers, a nasty drug lord, and does battle with a Mafia assassin.”
Will Cordes is a retired captain from the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office (Georgia) and a retired state agent with the Montana Department of Justice. He is a graduate of the 170th session of the FBI Academy and has written for The Single Shot Exchange, The Police Times and Tactical Shooting magazines. Will Cordes is the author of two novels, A Man Adrift and A Step to Far.
According to the book description of Will Cordes’ A Step to Far, “Matheson Draper ruled a global business empire. His shiny black trucks, planes, and ships traveled the far reaches of the world. A remorseless sexual deviate, he went to great lengths to promote and expand his corporate interests. But sometimes a man's power can corrupt more than just himself. Todd Milton, state agent for the Montana Criminal Investigation Bureau, was no stranger to murder investigations, but who would want to kill one of the world's richest men? Or maybe it might be easier to figure out who wouldn't.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 413 police officers (representing 179 police departments) and their 885 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
More Cop Fiction
Police-Writers.com, a website dedicated to listing state and local police officers who have authored books added three cops who have written works of fiction, Harold Lloyd, Barry Mason and Gary Lovett.
Lieutenant Harold K. Lloyd, Philadelphia Police Department, is the commanding officer of the undercover narcotics operations in four Philadelphia Police Department districts. Lieutenant Harold Lloyd has overseen the takedown of five violent drug organizations and is a distinguished graduate of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s prestigious Drug Unit Commanders Academy. In May 2001 the Citizen’s Crime Commission of the Delaware Valley awarded Lieutenant Harold K. Lloyd’s group a Unit Citation for their efforts in dismantling a vicious heroin ring operating out of North Philadelphia.
With Crooked Timber, his first novel, Lloyd draws upon his vast experience to “deliver a hard boiled crime story where the line that separates good and evil is virtually nonexistent.”
Barry Mason is a detective with the Cobb County Police Department (Georgia). He has a BA in commercial art and psychology and has worked in law enforcement for over ten years; first as a crime scene technician, then a police officer, and finally a detective. He is the author of two books – Maroon and Killswitch. Maroon is “a story that follows a police recruit who tries to solve everything his complicated new job has to offer while a veteran homicide detective struggles on the edge of self destruction. Of course, there is the young and beautiful high school art teacher who begins a new life in a new town. They have nothing in common until the madman called The Machine pulls them into his world of carnage and delusional fantasy. You watch the story unfold through the eyes of the characters and through the killer's eyes as he labors to make the world into what he has envisioned for it.”
Barry Mason’s second book is Killswitch. According to the book description, “imagine routinely answering your telephone, turning on your T.V., radio or computer and something different happens this time. You hear a series of digital tones and your inhibitions are instantly gone. You are a law abiding and honest person - but now a human monster driven by self-indulgence, sexual depravity and unbridled violence. You've just experienced Killswitch.”
Gary C. Lovett is a retired homicide investigator for the Atlanta Police Department. He is the author of Season of Death. According to the book description, “The holiday season has just begun and, Detective Robert Sweet Owens a street smart Atlanta homicide investigator has become involved in the murder investigation of a popular member of Atlanta's clergy. The death is related to a series of other murders and members of the police department. When Sweet Owens' mother's life is threatened by the investigation, he has to scramble to solve the case and save her life.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 410 police officers (representing 176 police departments) and their 881 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Lieutenant Harold K. Lloyd, Philadelphia Police Department, is the commanding officer of the undercover narcotics operations in four Philadelphia Police Department districts. Lieutenant Harold Lloyd has overseen the takedown of five violent drug organizations and is a distinguished graduate of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s prestigious Drug Unit Commanders Academy. In May 2001 the Citizen’s Crime Commission of the Delaware Valley awarded Lieutenant Harold K. Lloyd’s group a Unit Citation for their efforts in dismantling a vicious heroin ring operating out of North Philadelphia.
With Crooked Timber, his first novel, Lloyd draws upon his vast experience to “deliver a hard boiled crime story where the line that separates good and evil is virtually nonexistent.”
Barry Mason is a detective with the Cobb County Police Department (Georgia). He has a BA in commercial art and psychology and has worked in law enforcement for over ten years; first as a crime scene technician, then a police officer, and finally a detective. He is the author of two books – Maroon and Killswitch. Maroon is “a story that follows a police recruit who tries to solve everything his complicated new job has to offer while a veteran homicide detective struggles on the edge of self destruction. Of course, there is the young and beautiful high school art teacher who begins a new life in a new town. They have nothing in common until the madman called The Machine pulls them into his world of carnage and delusional fantasy. You watch the story unfold through the eyes of the characters and through the killer's eyes as he labors to make the world into what he has envisioned for it.”
Barry Mason’s second book is Killswitch. According to the book description, “imagine routinely answering your telephone, turning on your T.V., radio or computer and something different happens this time. You hear a series of digital tones and your inhibitions are instantly gone. You are a law abiding and honest person - but now a human monster driven by self-indulgence, sexual depravity and unbridled violence. You've just experienced Killswitch.”
Gary C. Lovett is a retired homicide investigator for the Atlanta Police Department. He is the author of Season of Death. According to the book description, “The holiday season has just begun and, Detective Robert Sweet Owens a street smart Atlanta homicide investigator has become involved in the murder investigation of a popular member of Atlanta's clergy. The death is related to a series of other murders and members of the police department. When Sweet Owens' mother's life is threatened by the investigation, he has to scramble to solve the case and save her life.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 410 police officers (representing 176 police departments) and their 881 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Hollywood Police and Others
Police-Writers.com, a website dedicated to listing state and local police officers who have authored books added three writers; one from the Hollywood Police Department (Florida), the Clinton Township Police Department (New Jersey) and the Chicago Police Department.
Lieutenant Ryan Melsky, of the Clinton Township Police Department authored Common Sense Wisdom for the New Officer. According to the book description, “Ryan Melsky knows how helpful hard-earned life lessons from veteran cops can be for young officers, so he decided to share them. This treasure chest of arm-around-the-shoulder advice will help keep you safe and make your career shine!”
Ernie Dorling was a Special Agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and is now a supervisory Special Agent with the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. He was also a police officer with the Hollywood Police Department (Florida). Ernie has worked as a federal agent since 1978 with assignments in Washington, DC and Germany where he earned his Masters Degree in Public Administration. Ernest Dorling has authored two true crime books, With Consciousness of Guilt and Murder: A Family Affair.
According to the book description of With Consciousness of Guilt, “The first time Sam Consiglio assaulted a woman, he was 13-years-old. He would grab women by the breasts and run. When caught, he promised the police and his father he would never do that again. It’s probably the one promise Sam made to anyone that he actually kept. For over 25 years, Sam preyed upon unsuspecting women from Michigan to Florida to California. Using his wit and charming personality, he gained their confidence and trust before turning violent whenever he needed to satisfy his sexual urges. With almost every arrest, Sam was able to beat the police and the prosecutors as they tried in vain, to have him incarcerated. And with each failure of the courts to keep him behind bars, Sam grew more confident that no one could ever keep him locked up.”
One Amazon reader/reviewer remarked of Murder: A Family Affair, “a must read! Mug Shots on Court TV and A&E's City Confidential did a disservice to the truth in this case. Ernie Dorling's accuracy and writing style brings the characters alive. Everyone that I spoke to, said once they started reading; they couldn't put it down. Two women reading the book at the same time called each other every night to talk about every event in the book. Each chapter is more unbelievable than the one before.”
Thomas J. Cline, a 30-year member of the Chicago Police Department authored a collection of short stories about life as a police officer in Cop Tales. According to the book description, “Cop Tales is a unique, empathic look into the harsh realities and aberrant adventures of a big city patrolman. Whether as a recruit training at the academy, a rookie going through his baptism of fire, or an officer with years under his belt, Thomas Cline paints a vivid picture of his encounters, thoughts, and opinions.” Bill Nolan, the President of Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 7 said of Cop Tales, “sometimes too revealing, nails what being a cop is really about including the laughs, triumph and tragedy.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 407 police officers (representing 174 police departments) and their 877 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
Lieutenant Ryan Melsky, of the Clinton Township Police Department authored Common Sense Wisdom for the New Officer. According to the book description, “Ryan Melsky knows how helpful hard-earned life lessons from veteran cops can be for young officers, so he decided to share them. This treasure chest of arm-around-the-shoulder advice will help keep you safe and make your career shine!”
Ernie Dorling was a Special Agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and is now a supervisory Special Agent with the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. He was also a police officer with the Hollywood Police Department (Florida). Ernie has worked as a federal agent since 1978 with assignments in Washington, DC and Germany where he earned his Masters Degree in Public Administration. Ernest Dorling has authored two true crime books, With Consciousness of Guilt and Murder: A Family Affair.
According to the book description of With Consciousness of Guilt, “The first time Sam Consiglio assaulted a woman, he was 13-years-old. He would grab women by the breasts and run. When caught, he promised the police and his father he would never do that again. It’s probably the one promise Sam made to anyone that he actually kept. For over 25 years, Sam preyed upon unsuspecting women from Michigan to Florida to California. Using his wit and charming personality, he gained their confidence and trust before turning violent whenever he needed to satisfy his sexual urges. With almost every arrest, Sam was able to beat the police and the prosecutors as they tried in vain, to have him incarcerated. And with each failure of the courts to keep him behind bars, Sam grew more confident that no one could ever keep him locked up.”
One Amazon reader/reviewer remarked of Murder: A Family Affair, “a must read! Mug Shots on Court TV and A&E's City Confidential did a disservice to the truth in this case. Ernie Dorling's accuracy and writing style brings the characters alive. Everyone that I spoke to, said once they started reading; they couldn't put it down. Two women reading the book at the same time called each other every night to talk about every event in the book. Each chapter is more unbelievable than the one before.”
Thomas J. Cline, a 30-year member of the Chicago Police Department authored a collection of short stories about life as a police officer in Cop Tales. According to the book description, “Cop Tales is a unique, empathic look into the harsh realities and aberrant adventures of a big city patrolman. Whether as a recruit training at the academy, a rookie going through his baptism of fire, or an officer with years under his belt, Thomas Cline paints a vivid picture of his encounters, thoughts, and opinions.” Bill Nolan, the President of Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 7 said of Cop Tales, “sometimes too revealing, nails what being a cop is really about including the laughs, triumph and tragedy.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 407 police officers (representing 174 police departments) and their 877 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books.
A Police and Military Writer
Police-Writers.com, a website dedicated to listing state and local police officers who have authored books added a writer who has served in both the military and domestic law enforcement.
Robert S. Stering served in the United States Air Force from 1968 to 1972. He enlisted again, in the USAF(R) in 1982. He served as a Special Agent for the Air Force Office of Special Investigation; and, was honorably discharged as an E-5 in 1985. In addition to his military service, Robert S. Stering was a police officer for the Waltham Police Department (Massachusetts) for 25 years.
Robert S. Stering has a Masters degree in Criminal Justice and is a certified criminal intelligence analyst. In addition to his writing, Rob Stering is an adjunct professor for several colleges teaching Profiling Serial Offenders, Crime Analysis, Intelligence Analysis, Introduction to Terrorism and other courses. He is also a consultant to the Municipal Police Training Committee (Massachusetts) as the state coordinator for patrol procedures.
His first book, a Police Officer's Handbook “provides you with an understanding of the situations, problems, and conflicts that police officers face daily. This is an indispensable resource for law enforcement students and professionals. The Police Officer's Handbook is divided into two parts. Part One discusses what police officers do and how they accomplish their tasks. It also takes a closer look at the role of the police officer today. Part Two offers you an opportunity to put yourself into the role of the police officer. Through scenarios you will examine some of the day-to-day incidents that police officers face on the street. After reading this text, you will gain practical knowledge and understand how to resolve a variety of conflicts.”
Robert S. Stering’s second book, Imagen: A Serial Killer Leaves Puzzling Clues, is a fictional work that takes the reader inside the mind of both the killer and the victim. According to the book description, “A serial killer is stalking the community. He leaves subtle clues. Or are they? The murders are perfect, the clues and evidence left, break all traditional investigative formalities. The book is unique in the way you interpret the emotions. With a clever switching of tenses, the author allows you the reader to be the victim and the killer. You feel the pain, and emotions of the victim. You experience the excitement, the thoughts and the reasoning of the Killer. Both visions bring you to the point of death. With the author’s experiences and knowledge of the field, the book offers a close-up and front seat realistic view of the investigative process.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 401 police officers (representing 171 police departments) and their 864 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books. Military-Writers.com now lists 20 active, retired and former military personnel who have authored 20 books.
Robert S. Stering served in the United States Air Force from 1968 to 1972. He enlisted again, in the USAF(R) in 1982. He served as a Special Agent for the Air Force Office of Special Investigation; and, was honorably discharged as an E-5 in 1985. In addition to his military service, Robert S. Stering was a police officer for the Waltham Police Department (Massachusetts) for 25 years.
Robert S. Stering has a Masters degree in Criminal Justice and is a certified criminal intelligence analyst. In addition to his writing, Rob Stering is an adjunct professor for several colleges teaching Profiling Serial Offenders, Crime Analysis, Intelligence Analysis, Introduction to Terrorism and other courses. He is also a consultant to the Municipal Police Training Committee (Massachusetts) as the state coordinator for patrol procedures.
His first book, a Police Officer's Handbook “provides you with an understanding of the situations, problems, and conflicts that police officers face daily. This is an indispensable resource for law enforcement students and professionals. The Police Officer's Handbook is divided into two parts. Part One discusses what police officers do and how they accomplish their tasks. It also takes a closer look at the role of the police officer today. Part Two offers you an opportunity to put yourself into the role of the police officer. Through scenarios you will examine some of the day-to-day incidents that police officers face on the street. After reading this text, you will gain practical knowledge and understand how to resolve a variety of conflicts.”
Robert S. Stering’s second book, Imagen: A Serial Killer Leaves Puzzling Clues, is a fictional work that takes the reader inside the mind of both the killer and the victim. According to the book description, “A serial killer is stalking the community. He leaves subtle clues. Or are they? The murders are perfect, the clues and evidence left, break all traditional investigative formalities. The book is unique in the way you interpret the emotions. With a clever switching of tenses, the author allows you the reader to be the victim and the killer. You feel the pain, and emotions of the victim. You experience the excitement, the thoughts and the reasoning of the Killer. Both visions bring you to the point of death. With the author’s experiences and knowledge of the field, the book offers a close-up and front seat realistic view of the investigative process.”
Police-Writers.com now hosts 401 police officers (representing 171 police departments) and their 864 books in six categories, there are also listings of United States federal law enforcement employees turned authors, international police officers who have written books and civilian police personnel who have written books. Military-Writers.com now lists 20 active, retired and former military personnel who have authored 20 books.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Voice-to-Voice Device Provides Successful Combat Language Translation Capability
Editor's Note: A version of the device is being tested and deployed for use by domestic law enforcement.
The Voice Response Translator (VRT) has provided important voice-to-voice language translation capabilities for US military personnel engaged in direct action combat operations, according to reports provided by military personnel. The 11-ounce VRT was developed over the past 12 years with National Institute of Justice and Defense Department funding and is the only eyes-free, hands-free voice-to-voice translator in existence. This unique capability enables users to maintain weapon readiness and situational awareness while providing instructions, information and asking short questions of foreign nationals in hostile and potentially hostile situations.
Voice Response Translators “contributed immeasurably to the success of more than twenty direct action raids in Iraq in support of national level objectives,” according an after-action report by a Ranger Captain. “In addition to sparing precious time on the objective, they reduced collateral damage by bridging a tremendous language barrier therein resulting in the detention of more than fifteen members of the local insurgent network. The VRT proved invaluable in multiple roles as not only a tactical questioning tool but also as a force protection multiplier used both on objectives and from blocking positions.”
Users speak short commands into the VRT, and translated instructions and questions are produced by it. The system has been deployed with US Army, Special Forces, Marines, Coast Guard, and Navy personnel. The current version translates limited spoken Iraqi responses into English as part of advanced research funded by the Defense Advance Research Projects Agency (DARPA).
The VRT is highly miniaturized (it fits in a standard M4 single ammo pouch) and can be integrated fully with MICH tactical headsets without interfering with communications or fast roping operations.
The system is produced by IWT, Inc. and Laguna Industries, Inc. IWT, Inc., a Fremont, CA-based company, specializes in the development and production of miniaturized speech recognition devices that work in high noise environments. IWT was founded in 1992 by Silicon Valley pioneer John H. Hall, who developed the first successful electronic watch, the first computerized heart pacemaker, the first radiation-hardened computer and other civilian and defense electronics systems. For more information visit their website: http://www.i-w-t.com/
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books as well as criminal justice online leadership.
The Voice Response Translator (VRT) has provided important voice-to-voice language translation capabilities for US military personnel engaged in direct action combat operations, according to reports provided by military personnel. The 11-ounce VRT was developed over the past 12 years with National Institute of Justice and Defense Department funding and is the only eyes-free, hands-free voice-to-voice translator in existence. This unique capability enables users to maintain weapon readiness and situational awareness while providing instructions, information and asking short questions of foreign nationals in hostile and potentially hostile situations.
Voice Response Translators “contributed immeasurably to the success of more than twenty direct action raids in Iraq in support of national level objectives,” according an after-action report by a Ranger Captain. “In addition to sparing precious time on the objective, they reduced collateral damage by bridging a tremendous language barrier therein resulting in the detention of more than fifteen members of the local insurgent network. The VRT proved invaluable in multiple roles as not only a tactical questioning tool but also as a force protection multiplier used both on objectives and from blocking positions.”
Users speak short commands into the VRT, and translated instructions and questions are produced by it. The system has been deployed with US Army, Special Forces, Marines, Coast Guard, and Navy personnel. The current version translates limited spoken Iraqi responses into English as part of advanced research funded by the Defense Advance Research Projects Agency (DARPA).
The VRT is highly miniaturized (it fits in a standard M4 single ammo pouch) and can be integrated fully with MICH tactical headsets without interfering with communications or fast roping operations.
The system is produced by IWT, Inc. and Laguna Industries, Inc. IWT, Inc., a Fremont, CA-based company, specializes in the development and production of miniaturized speech recognition devices that work in high noise environments. IWT was founded in 1992 by Silicon Valley pioneer John H. Hall, who developed the first successful electronic watch, the first computerized heart pacemaker, the first radiation-hardened computer and other civilian and defense electronics systems. For more information visit their website: http://www.i-w-t.com/
This article was sponsored by police and military personnel who have written books as well as criminal justice online leadership.
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