Technology Evolution

¶ … Technology Like many government agencies, research has shown that law enforcement has traditionally been slow in adopting new technologies in the past. However, today, emerging technologies are changing the landscape of police work every day, for instance; law enforcement technology has changed the way many police conduct businesses. In summary, this paper will discuss on the several technologies that have changed the face of law enforcement in recent years as well as, providing examples of the pros and cons of these new technologies.

New technology has a lasting effect on law enforcement agency such as enhancing crime prevention and crime solving strategies through information sharing. One of the technologies that have changed the face of law enforcement in recent years is the use of social media such as Facebook, Twitter, and other social sites. Studies have shown that police department has adopted new technology which is used to reach out to the public to build stronger ties with the public or residents.

A good example is the use of Facebook, a social networking medium that is today used worldwide, in which the public connect with the police through information sharing. This technology is significant because it reduce barriers to information sharing among law enforcement agencies across disciplines. However the use of this social media such as, Facebook on the other hand, has disadvantages such as, time consuming and frauds. For instance, someone can hack into the account and pretend to be anyone especially on Facebook with cyber squatters all over the place.

The use of wireless interoperability system as a new technology has also changed the face of law enforcement. This system connects all federal, state, and local broadcasting frequencies whereas it guarantees a real-time communication for the first-responder emergency personnel. To aid law enforcement officers with searches and evidence display, scientists have on the other hand created a non-intrusive freight inspection device, which discloses the contents of sealed containers.

This system is also able to distinguish contents such as drugs, weapons, and explosives as well as, providing protection to the police officers and investigators. A new technology that has as well changed the face of law enforcement in recent years is the use of in-car camera systems. This technology has become a valued tool used by law enforcement to confirm a high degree of officer professionalism.

The police use the system to record video footage and events involving the public from a patrol car, which has proven invaluable in matters involving criminal investigations, arrests and traffic stops. Research showed that ever since the implementation of in-car camera systems, the cameras has captured both intended and unintended video footage that has established their value. Most video recordings have resulted in convictions; many provide an expedited means to resolve citizen complaints as well as, exonerating police officers from accusations.

This technology is of a great advantage because it increases community access to law enforcement information and.