The Alexandria Police Department has won this year’s Virginia Municipal League Achievement Award for its innovative tactical computer system.
"Alexandria’s tactical computer system is a model of high performance that makes good use of tax dollars while providing enhanced services to the community,” said one of the VML judges. “The demands on local law enforcement agencies have never been greater and the events of the past few years have shown how vital an effective public safety communications system is in a time of emergency.
"Communication systems also play a key part in traditional law enforcement activities. The ability to more quickly run routine checks on individuals and vehicles makes the City of Alexandria a safer place while protecting its police officers from exposure to unnecessary risks.”
THE ELECTRONIC reporting system was developed to transmit the data from the officer through the supervisor for approval and then to the records management system. Users were trained incrementally through the summer and fall of 2001. The department fully implemented the software in early 2002.
The department provided software that enabled all officers to run queries independently without using the radio. Every officer can stop a car and instantly know the status of the license plate and driver. Also, officers are able to use data communications for routine administrative messages and receiving their call assignments along with all details of the call. Software has been added that runs multiple queries from one entry and reads information to the officer in a simulated voice.
Through the use of servers and mobile update software, Alexandria developed an intranet for the mobile computers. Any type of information, text or photograph can be sent to the entire mobile fleet instantly.
“We are thrilled with this very important award,” said Amy Bertsch, a spokesperson for the department. “It recognizes the innovative work of our officers and demonstrates our use of cutting edge technology to better serve the residents of Alexandria.”