The Complete Guide To Police GPS Tracking Systems
Are you exploring advanced surveillance methods for your police department? If so, the tool on the top of the list for your consideration should be GPS tracking. But why is it pivotal tool for modern law enforcement? First of all, GPS trackers will discreetly monitor suspect movements, aiding in evidence collection. In this guide, we will show you how to implement GPS tracking effectively, understand legal nuances, and learn from its successful deployment. Discover how this technology can elevate your operations, providing a strategic edge in investigations. Yes, we will go over everything you need to know about police GPS tracking. Now, let’s get started!
The Impact of GPS Tracking On Police Tactics – Case Studies
One of the more interesting case studies with GPS tracking for police involved a product called StarChase. Published in July 2017 by the Department of Justice, this study dives into the real-world impact of GPS tracking tools on police vehicle pursuits. Let’s examine some of the findings more closely.
In the study, three distinct law enforcement agencies provided insights into their use of the StarChase system. Each agency’s application of the tool varied, from tagging vehicles pre-chase to employing the technology in unforeseen ways. This versatility underscores GPS tracking’s adaptability in field operations. Through these case studies, two main benefits emerged. First, StarChase proved effective, reducing the need for high-speed pursuits and thereby increasing safety. Secondly, it afforded officers valuable time to strategize responses to complex scenarios. However, challenges were also noted. Officers found the tool beneficial but not universally applicable, acknowledging its limitations across varying pursuit conditions.
These findings reveal a nuanced picture: GPS tracking tools like StarChase are reshaping pursuit strategies, enhancing officer safety, and altering the landscape of police work. Yet, as with any tool, they are part of a larger tactical arsenal, not a standalone solution.
Additional Learning: See What The StarChase Owner Said About His GPS Launcher On CBS Chicago
7 Key Features Of GPS Tracking For Police
Are you aware of the advantages GPS tracking can offer your police department? If not, we will share 7 key features of GPS technology and how it can help your law enforcement team improve operations. Whether that is for managing your own police cruisers, or secretly tracking the vehicle of potential suspects.
- Swift Dispatch: GPS units provide real-time location data, ensuring quick dispatch and timely responses to emergencies.
- Optimized Routing: Traffic updates and GPS mapping guide you to emergencies via the fastest routes, saving critical minutes.
- Zone Oversight: Real-time mapping platforms help maintain zone integrity, keeping officers within their assigned areas.
- Crime Scene Response: Identify and dispatch the nearest units to a crime scene, reducing response times.
- Surveillance: Covert vehicle tracking with GPS tags allows for discreet surveillance, minimizing detection risk.
- Fleet Management: GPS vehicle systems manage your fleet, ensuring efficient use of police cars.
- Pursuit Safety: Handheld GPS launchers like StarChase reduce the need for high-speed pursuits, enhancing officer and public safety.
Financial Considerations For GPS Tracking In Police Departments
When contemplating the integration of GPS tracking systems in police work, the cost is a crucial factor. Here’s a breakdown of what your department might expect financially:
Hardware Costs:
- GPS vehicle tracking devices range from about $29 to $299, with additional subscription fees for data.
Installation and Operational Costs:
- GPS trackers for squad cars may require professional installation, which adds to the upfront costs.
- Subscription fees for tracking platforms can range widely, from a few dollars to several hundred dollars annually.
- Maintenance costs for hardware and periodic software updates can further contribute to the total cost.
Funding and Grants:
- Federal grants are available annually to law enforcement agencies for various policing activities, including technology upgrades like GPS systems.
- Departments can seek funding from federal sources such as the Justice Department, Department of Homeland Security, and Department of Transportation.
- Specifically, the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program is a primary federal funding source that local jurisdictions can tap into for law enforcement technology.
While the initial investment for GPS tracking systems can be significant, the long-term benefits often justify the cost. Enhanced efficiency, improved officer safety, and better resource management are just a few of the returns on this investment. Therefore, it’s crucial to weigh these potential benefits against the initial and ongoing costs to make a well-informed decision for your department.