Police to trial mobile data benefits

Police are bringing the office to the road with a mobile data trial scheduled to start in October, Police Minister Jack Dempsey announced today.

Mr Dempsey said the Queensland Police Service (QPS) had designed a program for mobile devices which let police officers search their computer system while on the beat.

“In October, 50 officers across the state will be issued with either a smart phone or tablet device with a custom built Police app which will let them instantly search person, vehicle and address details through QPS, CRIMTRAC and Department of Transport systems,” Mr Dempsey said.

“Currently officers have to use the two way radio system to call a Police Communications Centre to have a search performed.  

“They often have to wait while a radio operator takes the details, checks the information and then relays the results back to the officer.  

“During a busy period an officer may have to wait for the results of their request.

“With the mobile system, police officers will have all that information at their fingertips, saving officers’ waiting time and allowing them to move on to other jobs.

“It is hoped that by reducing the time it takes to perform searches, this Police app will save each police crew around 30 minutes each shift.

“The QPS will speak regularly to the 50 officers who are trialling the app to see if these benefits are being realised and to ensure the app is performing as intended.

“The State Government is committed to finding ways to maximise police officers’ time on the road protecting the people of Queensland.”

Mr Dempsey said the QPS had also recently purchased 400 mini iPads which were set to be trialled soon.

“The officers issued these iPads will test the functionality of a new email and mobile intranet system,” he said.

“It is hoped that by giving operational officers this access, they can check their emails from the road rather than having to do it at the beginning or end of their shift in the Police Station.”

Commissioner Ian Stewart said mobile data would support police officers on the frontline as they make decisions at the coal face.

“This will help deliver a more efficient and improved policing service to the community,” Commissioner Stewart said.

“The mobile data will help the QPS become flexible and responsive within problem areas, and also boost safety for officers.

“Being able to search the police database while on the road is of huge assistance to the Service and feedback from officers who use the technology will be invaluable.” 

[ENDS] 28 July 2013

Media contacts: Alexandra Foley 0418 256 910 or Lea Emery 0417 226 114