Public Safety
Forensic crime labs are buckling as new technology increases demand
A major federal funding cut could make labs’ struggles worse.
NYPD Bypassed Facial Recognition Ban to ID Pro-Palestinian Student Protester
Barred from using Clearview AI, NYC police relied on a marshal in the fire department to run a search that turned up photos of the student at his high school graduation.
Pierce County, Washington violated state law by diverting millions in tax revenue meant to improve 911 calls, state audit finds
Officials repeatedly ignored guidance regarding their $4.5 million purchase to boost law enforcement radio connection at a government building in Tacoma, jeopardizing federal funding.
Idaho approves $15M grant to upgrade emergency response system to Next Generation 911
The Idaho Public Safety Communications Commission approved a $15 million grant to modernize the state’s 911 emergency response system.
911 looks to AI to filter out non-emergency calls
The technology is helping answer non-emergency calls and otherwise free up dispatchers to focus on true emergencies that they otherwise would have needed to forward along.
How one school system is turning to AI to boost safety
Loudoun County, Virginia Public Schools will start using the tech to monitor footage from security cameras for anything that appears to be out of the norm.
How prenegotiated, cooperative procurement helps drive innovation for governments
The Texas Department of Information Resources is leveraging state-level procurement negotiations to help deliver innovative solutions to local public safety organizations.
Feds expect Iran’s cyber forces will target US networks after strikes on nuclear sites
Iran has often targeted U.S. digital systems. Last year, Iranian hackers pilfered and distributed sensitive documents from inside President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign.
Uber, Lyft oppose some bills that aim to prevent assaults during rides
The companies argue they have sufficient safety features within their apps.
How prediction analysis can help further cut traffic deaths
COMMENTARY | Just over 39,000 people died in traffic fatalities last year, a number that is still too high but represents a 4% drop from 2023. Technology can help reduce that figure more.
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T-Mobile is using 5G, drones and AI to help first responders
The provider’s T-Priority 5G network slicing solution aims to give first responders enhanced connectivity services in disaster zones.
New data dashboard aims to help police, policymakers tackle crime
The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments has released a data tool to improve crime reduction efforts and increase data transparency in communities.
Alaska city turns to cloud to enhance emergency dispatch services
After losing power from a windstorm and a hurricane in recent years, the Fairbanks Emergency Communications Center is tapping into cloud technology to ensure dispatch services won’t be disrupted during future events.
Police department turns to new data tool to boost performance
The Rochester, New York, Police Department started using a tool known as Commons in April. It provides frequently updated criminal justice data and can help set policy goals.
Washington to rein in fast drivers with speed limiters
A new state law set to take effect in 2029 will require repeat speeding offenders to install the devices in their vehicles.
Texas lawmakers want to spend millions on Child ID kits. Experts say there’s no evidence they work.
Texas legislators slipped millions for child ID kits into a 1,000-page budget proposal. The move comes two years after they quietly cut funding for such kits following a ProPublica and Texas Tribune report that showed there’s no evidence they work.
‘Spy High:’ Amazon documentary probes dangers of online student surveillance
Filmmaker uses infamous 2010 ‘WebcamGate’ case to examine present-day threats to student privacy and digital policing of marginalized kids.
How AI is transforming state and local investigations
COMMENTARY | The technology can help process data quicker and sift through what can be distressing evidence. But agencies must tread carefully and have the right policies and training in place to be successful.
FirstNet seeks engagement, outreach support from industry
The winner of this five-year pact will also contribute to the network's roadmap and strategy for incorporating new technologies.
Law enforcement taps drones to improve response times and safety
By allowing drone operators to listen in on 911 calls in real time, a Georgia police department aims to enhance public safety operations.
