Gizmo cuts police 'station time'

 

Dyfed-Powys Police is introducing new mobile data technology into patrol cars that will give officers in the area instant access to data and information as well as allowing them to do paperwork while on the go.

 

ToughBooks are fitted in the centre dashboard of police vehicles and provide access to the force’s IT systems. These electronic devices therefore allow them to access all the systems and information they need to do their job directly from the police vehicle, and without having to return to the station.

 

“I think over the last 18 months as an organisation we’ve gone through significant changes,” said Deputy Chief Constable Jackie Roberts. “But I think one of the most significant changes is the introduction of mobile data across the force.

 

“What this will mean for us is a transformation of the way we do business. It will allow police officers and Police Community Support Officers to get out of police stations and out into the heart of our communities.

 

“What the public continually tell us is they want us out there and visible in communities, and the issuing of these Toughbooks is going to mean that officers can undertake their work on the move. They’ll have access to the information they need when they need it.

 

“They’ll be able to access emails, their tasks and details of ongoing incidents from the computers in their vehicles which I think is going to make us far more professional, up to date and efficient in the way we do business.”

 

For the officers who have been using it on the beat, mobile data is proving invaluable.

 

“I didn’t know what to think of them before they came in, but they’ve been great,” said PC Sarah Dalling. “They’ve definitely assisted me, especially when going to calls. If I need any information I can have a look on the toughbook straight away without having to go back to the station. And that means I can spend a lot longer on the streets.”