Walton police are first in line to get new technology in fight against crime

Police in Walton are part of a pilot in the use of new mobile data handsets as part of initiative to improve the service officers provide.

 

The handsets, which are being rolled out across Surrey during the coming year, allow officers to access computer based programmes and databases while on patrol.

 

Traditionally officers would be required to return to a station or contact the force control room, where there is a computer available, in order to complete tasks such as carrying out vehicle and person searches and checks, viewing of incidents, accessing Police National Legal Database (PNLD) and completing stop and account and stop and search forms.

 

With the introduction of mobile data, all these tasks can now be completed whilst out on patrol, allowing officers to spend more time patrolling the streets on North Surrey.

 

Officers will also have mobile printers, so they can produce and print different forms without the need to duplicate information several times on several forms by hand.

 

From August a small group of officers within Northern Surrey will be issued the handsets and be using them throughout their regular working day. From September 13 all Northern Surrey officers will be issued the devices.

 

The handsets, which look similar to that used by some courier services, are handheld and the officers use a stylus to type in information. They are completely secure, requiring pin code entry and can be disabled at any time if necessary.

 

PC Claire Sumpter, who was one of the first officers to receive the handset, said: “This is a great step forward for Surrey Police, and allows officers to be where they are needed most, on the streets, interacting with the public.

 

“The handsets are easy to use and allow us access to key databases and forms that we would otherwise have to visit the office to use.

 

“With mobile data I can access information quickly and recall data as and when necessary without the need to constantly call back to the control room for information.”

 

Assistant Chief Constable Ian Dyson, who is leading the project, said:

“I am delighted we are supporting the roll out of mobile data and the improved efficiency and performance we expect it to bring.

 

“Mobile data will reduce bureaucratic processes, the time officers spend in offices and form filling, and means more time will be spent on the front-line increasing visibility and reassuring the public.”

 

It is hoped the handsets will be further improved over time to include fingerprint recognition and image capturing.