A police officer’s duties used to revolve around routine traffic stops and piles of paperwork. However, nowadays, with the help of ever-improving technology, officers now have access to newer and improved gadgets that help them stay ahead of crime.
Here are seven of the top gadgets police officers are using, designed to enhance public safety, catch unlawful individuals, and save lives, making communities a better and safer place.
Smarter Cruisers
Police cars have come a long way since the first-ever cruiser hitting the streets in 1899 that featured a gong for a siren and an actual cell in the back for criminals. Nowadays, police cruisers have LED lights that deter traffic from blocking their way, dash cams to record every detail on the road and inside the car, and armor-piercing bulletproof doors for better protection. These upgraded and “smarter” cars allow police officers to cruise around their communities, safely, securely, and with style.
Gunshot Detection System
The gunshot detection system, or the ShotSpotter, is an advanced system that shows law enforcement officials where a gunshot took place. This police technology uses sensitive audio sensors placed around communities to detect gunshots, showing officers the location, allowing them to take action faster and more accurately.
Robots
Sending too many police officers is not ideal with specific situations such as dealing with hard-to-reach crime scenes or riskier missions. That’s why robotic police cameras were made, allowing law enforcement officials to see dangerous places without risking their safety. Officers can drive these remote-controlled robots that enable them to detect bombs, search suspicious vehicles and homes.
Thermal Imaging
Thermal imaging, a standard in the medical industry, has found its way to the crime scene. It allows officers to browse their surroundings through a “thermal view,” offering them an accurate, identifiable, and reliable “heat picture.” This technology helps them locate suspects hiding in dark buildings, find victims easier in search and rescue operations, or find vital evidence in crime scenes.
Automatic License Plate Recognition
Those numbers and letters on any legal vehicle’s license plates help police officers see if the car, motorcycle, or truck has been stolen or if the owner is wanted. Although useful, it’s a lengthy process. However, with the new automatic license plate recognition technology, officers can now detect license plates in a breeze. The ALPR is an integrated camera data-based innovation that can take a photo of a vehicle’s license plate and automatically process its details following a known database, letting the officer know if the car, motorcycle, or truck is suspicious.
Drones
Drones or unmanned aircraft systems help police officers search for criminals, get information, or survey areas hit by natural disasters without having to use a piloted plane or helicopter, saving them the hassle of going out on the field. This revolutionary innovation can save police departments, money, time, and keep law enforcement officers safe. Although not many police departments are using drones in their operations because of criticism of the public, only time will tell if they’ll become a widespread part of law enforcement.
Handheld Lasers
Handheld lasers help police officers see the chemical composition of unknown substances instantly. It allows officers to determine what suspicious substance is on the get-go, eliminating the need for bringing these in the office or lab.
If you’re looking for an action-packed career while allowing you to explore your passion for technology, becoming a police officer gives you the best of worlds, allowing you to protect your community while having access to cutting-edge technology.