RTCCs offer a centralized hub for the collection, analysis and dissemination of real-time data, enabling police departments to respond more efficiently to crimes and emergencies. However, establishing an RTCC is a complex process that requires careful planning and consideration.
This article explores the key considerations for police departments when setting up an RTCC, focusing on technological infrastructure, personnel, legal and ethical concerns, funding, and community engagement.
Consider your objective
To achieve significant improvements in service, efficiency, effectiveness and outcomes that align with the agency’s mission, it is crucial to identify the clear objectives of your proposed RTCC.
“As the leader of a new RTCC, you must take an inventory of each stakeholder’s expectations and document these objectives,” says Lt. Justin Elliott, commander of the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office’s Real Time Crime Center. “We presented these objectives in an executive summary, which was informed by numerous conversations with successful partners from similar agencies facing comparable challenges. It’s essential to engage with as many peers in the field and technology partners as possible to discern who is trustworthy and genuinely invested in your success. Improving service is an objective we all share, and an effective RTCC will consistently deliver this result when the right combination of technology and personnel is employed.”
Technological infrastructure
1. Data integration and management
A successful RTCC relies on the integration of various data sources, including surveillance cameras, license plate readers, gunshot detection systems, social media monitoring and other sensors.
Police departments must ensure that their technological infrastructure can seamlessly collect, process, and analyze data from these disparate sources. This requires robust data management systems that can handle large volumes of data while ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Technologies that provide real-time alerts are key, says Lt. Elliott, such as ALPR, video cameras with integrated audio sensors, audio sensors specific to gunshot detection, alerts generated by video feed AI settings and software, real-time 911 software alerts based on CAD settings, and software that combines and compares this data with existing agency and intelligence system data and technology that uses many of these layers together to create the most real-time picture of the event as possible.
2. Interoperability
Interoperability between different technologies and systems is crucial. Police departments must ensure that their RTCC can communicate effectively with other agencies, such as emergency services, federal agencies and neighboring police departments. This often involves adopting standardized protocols and investing in interoperable communication systems.
3. Cybersecurity
Given the sensitive nature of the data handled by RTCCs, cybersecurity is a paramount concern. Police departments must implement stringent cybersecurity measures to protect against data breaches, hacking and other cyber threats. This includes employing encryption, regular security audits and continuous monitoring for vulnerabilities.
Minimizing cybersecurity risks and protecting privacy can be achieved by collaborating with reliable technology providers. It’s essential to ask detailed questions and verify that they prioritize privacy from the start.
A comprehensive plan to address security issues is crucial. Providers should openly discuss vulnerabilities and offer swift fixes. Effective cybersecurity is a collective responsibility that ensures public safety while upholding robust privacy measures.
Nikki North, past-president of the National Real Time Crime Center Association, underscores the importance of access control and audit trails, stating, “Consider who’s watching the video and what they’re using it for and consider who has access and an audit trail for that access.”
| WATCH: Spokane County Sheriff’s Office update on its Real Time Crime Center. Since August, officials say the RTCC played a “critical role in 140 success stories.” That includes 89 arrests and charges.
Personnel and training
1. Hiring skilled personnel
The effectiveness of an RTCC hinges on the expertise of its personnel. Police departments must hire individuals with specialized skills in data analysis and information technology. Additionally, staff should include experienced law enforcement officers who can interpret data and make informed decisions based on real-time information.
According to Lt. Elliott, “RTCC staff at the operator level must be motivated go-getters who are hungry to dig deeper and find value in the simplest of public safety situations. This may be sworn staff, analysts or communications operators, but they must have this proactive attribute.”
2. Continuous training
Technology and crime tactics evolve rapidly. Continuous training programs are essential to keep RTCC personnel updated on the latest tools, techniques, and best practices. This training should cover not only technical skills but also legal and ethical aspects of data handling and privacy. Lt. Elliott emphasizes the importance of advanced training, stating, “Providing training from experienced RTCC operators to help understand real-time investigative workflows and priorities can be a game-changer if available.”
3. Interdisciplinary teams
Creating interdisciplinary teams that combine technical experts, law enforcement officers and crime analysts can enhance the functionality of an RTCC. These teams can collaborate to provide comprehensive insights and responses to emerging situations.
“Successes and wins are the best way to share the value and effectiveness of your RTCC. Know what is important to your constituents and keep your compass pointed in that direction.”
Legal and ethical concerns
1. Privacy and civil liberties
The extensive data collection capabilities of RTCCs raise significant privacy and civil liberties concerns. Police departments must navigate the delicate balance between public safety and individual privacy rights. This involves developing clear policies and procedures for data collection, storage and usage that comply with legal standards and respect civil liberties.
Lt. Elliott notes, “Transparency is key. Nothing in our RTCC environment is a secret to be protected outside of personal privacy concerns.”
Nikki North also emphasizes, “Everyone’s immediate thoughts when it comes to RTCCs revolve around Big Brother. You have to explain that you’re not watching folks driving and fixing their hair in their car, you’re looking because there’s a call on the screen.”
2. Legal compliance
RTCC operations must adhere to all relevant laws and regulations, including those related to surveillance, data protection and information sharing. Police departments should consult with legal experts to ensure that their RTCC policies and practices comply with local, state and federal laws.
Lt. Elliott advises, “Becoming intimately aware and proficient with your agency and government’s legal procurement process is key. Our success has only been accomplished by having a diverse group of partners and advisors from each of our county government departments to consult with on all of these issues. Build your team of experts early and consult them regularly.”
3. Transparency and accountability
To maintain public trust, police departments should operate their RTCCs with transparency and accountability. This can be achieved through regular public reports, independent audits and mechanisms for public oversight. Clear documentation of RTCC activities and decision-making processes can help demonstrate that the center operates within legal and ethical boundaries.
Funding and budgeting
1. Initial Investment
Setting up an RTCC can require significant initial investment in technology, infrastructure and personnel. Police departments need to develop comprehensive budget plans that account for these upfront costs. This may involve seeking funding from local government budgets, federal grants, or private sector partnerships.
According to Lt. Elliott, “Our primary source was grant funding to get the program established and underway. This was also supported by general fund and existing unit resources that complimented each other.
“If partner agencies are involved, then subscriptions, or cost-sharing may be an option to fund RTCC operations. Maintaining or obtaining new funding will be heavily connected to success and public perception of the impacts and outcomes of the RTCC. Knowing your technology, constantly talking to peers across the US, and having trusted tech partners will keep costs reasonable, and ensure results that exceed expectations.”
2. Ongoing Costs
Beyond the initial setup, RTCCs incur ongoing costs for maintenance, upgrades, training, and operations. Police departments must budget for these recurring expenses to ensure the long-term sustainability of the center. This includes allocating funds for continuous technological upgrades to keep pace with advancements and emerging threats.
3. Cost-benefit analysis
Conducting a cost-benefit analysis can help justify the investment in an RTCC. By evaluating the potential benefits in terms of crime reduction, improved response times, and enhanced public safety, police departments can make informed decisions about the allocation of resources.
As Lt. Elliott points out, “Return on investment and efficiency impacts have the potential to support the funding of RTCC with unfilled officer position salaries if applicable to specific LE agency statuses.”
Nikki North emphasizes the importance of starting with existing resources, saying, “A lot of what we did initially was just using programs we already had.”
Community engagement
1. Building public trust
Public support is crucial for the successful implementation and operation of an RTCC. Police departments should engage with the community to explain the purpose and benefits of the center. This can be achieved through public meetings, informational campaigns and collaboration with community leaders.
2. Addressing concerns
Community members may have concerns about privacy, surveillance and potential abuses of power. Establishing clear policies and safeguards, as well as providing avenues for public feedback and oversight, can help alleviate fears and build trust.
3. Demonstrating effectiveness
To gain and maintain public support, police departments must demonstrate the effectiveness of their RTCC. This involves showcasing success stories where the RTCC played a pivotal role in preventing crime or improving emergency response. Publishing data and reports on the center’s impact can help illustrate its value to the community.
Implementation strategy
Phased approach
Implementing an RTCC in a phased manner can help manage costs, address challenges and refine processes. Starting with a pilot program allows police departments to test technologies and procedures on a smaller scale before full deployment. This phased approach enables adjustments based on lessons learned and feedback from stakeholders.
Collaboration with stakeholders
Successful RTCCs often result from collaboration with various stakeholders, including other law enforcement agencies, local government, private sector partners, and community organizations. Building strong partnerships can enhance the capabilities of the RTCC and ensure a coordinated approach to public safety.
Continuous evaluation and improvement
An RTCC should not be static; it requires continuous evaluation and improvement. Regular assessments of the center’s performance, technology and processes can identify areas for enhancement. Incorporating feedback from personnel and the community can drive ongoing improvements and ensure that the RTCC remains effective and relevant.
Conclusion
Setting up a Real Time Crime Center is a significant undertaking for any police department. It involves careful consideration of technological infrastructure, personnel, legal and ethical concerns, funding and community engagement.
The successful implementation of an RTCC requires a balanced approach that integrates advanced technology with skilled personnel, adheres to legal and ethical standards, and maintains public trust through transparency and accountability.
By addressing these key areas, police departments can establish RTCCs that enhance their ability to prevent and respond to crime, ultimately contributing to safer communities.
