Scranton Police Department Leaps into the Future with New Tech | PRIMENEWSNOW

Scranton Police: Embracing Technology for Enhanced Response

Officer Nicholas Philbin of the Scranton Police Department acted swiftly when called to assist a distressed woman wielding a knife at a Dickson City shopping center. His vehicle, equipped with advanced technology, served as a mobile command center, receiving real-time updates and tracking his route via GPS.

Technological Advancements in Policing

With eight years on the force, Philbin has witnessed firsthand how evolving technology enhances the efficiency and speed of police responses. As he navigated traffic, his vehicle’s system alerted him to other units approaching the scene, ensuring coordinated efforts.

Technology permeates every aspect of modern life, and the Scranton Police Department is no exception. By leveraging cutting-edge tools, they enhance training, boost public safety, and streamline communication.

Streamlined Operations with Mobile Units

Philbin’s vehicle, equipped with active body and vehicle cameras, allowed him to document the incident seamlessly, which concluded with the woman receiving mental health care. Officers can now complete reports and other documentation directly from their vehicle laptops, reducing time spent in the office.

Patrolman Robert Hegedus, responsible for the department’s fleet, emphasized that each vehicle functions as a self-contained mobile unit, complete with Wi-Fi and printers, enabling officers to remain in their sectors unless an arrest is made.

Innovative Tools for Modern Policing

Police Chief Thomas Carroll highlighted the department’s use of mobile command centers, drones, and virtual reality training to free up officers’ time for critical tasks. With nearly three decades of experience, Carroll appreciates how technology simplifies tasks that once required manual effort, such as license plate recognition.

Despite technological advancements, Carroll stresses the importance of officers’ judgment and community input in understanding situations fully.

Virtual Training: Preparing Officers for Real Scenarios

Lt. James Weaver explained how virtual Taser training provides a realistic and safe environment for officers to hone their skills. This method allows for repeated practice and scenario customization, ensuring officers are well-prepared for real-life situations.

In one training exercise, officers responded to a domestic dispute involving a woman with a knife. The scenario allowed officers to practice decision-making and justify their actions, crucial for courtroom testimony.

Drones: A New Perspective in Law Enforcement

Officer Angel Perez, an experienced drone operator, has seen the technology’s evolution and its growing role in law enforcement. The department’s drones assist in surveillance, search and rescue, and tactical operations, providing a safer alternative to sending officers into potentially dangerous situations.

The latest drone model, the Matrice 14, features remote capabilities and thermal sensors, enhancing nighttime operations and search efforts.

Data-Driven Policing with the Response Dashboard

A new data dashboard in Chief Carroll’s office offers insights into police activity, mapping incidents and analyzing trends. The department responds to approximately 4,000 incidents monthly, with proactive measures taken based on data analysis.

Carroll recalls the days of using push pins on a map to track crime, a method now replaced by sophisticated technology funded by city and state grants.

Equipped for the Future

During a recent event at Scranton City Hall, Patrolman Hegedus demonstrated the capabilities of the mobile command unit, which can manage incidents and coordinate with other emergency services. This advancement marks a significant leap from past practices, offering protection from the elements and enhanced communication capabilities.

With 17 years of service, Hegedus sees the integration of technology and artificial intelligence as the future of policing in Scranton.