Connected cars become mobile police stations
On-the-road connectivity is being used by police forces across the UK, Republic of Ireland and Europe to create mobile police stations.
On-the-road connectivity is being used by police forces across the UK, Republic of Ireland and Europe to create mobile police stations.
The mobile technology allows officers to securely access command and control systems, carry out database checks and access their desktop applications for email, web and the intranet all from their vehicles.
The system uses Westbase Technologys Cradlepoint router products to create a secure wi-fi hotspot both in and around the vehicle giving officers access to real-time information using Toughpad tablets from technology partner Panasonic ProServices. The technology has also enabled the deployment of automatic numberplate and facial recognition technology, helping forces to identify vehicles and suspects of interest with greater accuracy and speed.
It is being used by traffic and community policing teams, as well as specialist units such as armed response.
There is no doubt that we are seeing the business and community benefits of these devices, said Detective Chief Inspector Damien Kennedy, project manager for mobile data at Hertfordshire Constabulary. They improve our access to information, which improves our crime intelligence and arrest rates. They also make our officers more visible by enabling them to be in the community for more of the time.
