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High-tech troopers: DPS cars set with computers
Dec 04, 2008 (The Orange Leader - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) --
In recent weeks troopers with the Texas Department of Public Safety have been equipped with computers in their patrol cars.
Troopers can now scan the bar code on driver's licenses, print citations and make sure the driver is who they say they are by being able to see the photo online.
Before the computers were available, troopers would have to go to the local jail to make a positive identification of a person.
With in-car computers, troopers have the ability to instantly identify wanted persons and stolen vehicles.
"We can pull up VIN(vehicle identification number) or a partial VIN number to find out too to find out about the vehicle," said Trooper Shane Moses. "We can see if the plates match the vehicle or if it is stolen."
The secure network provides real-time alerts, digital photographs and homeland security information, and equips the units with GPS (Global Positioning System) technology. The computers will also speed up the citation process since they no longer have to write the citation out before giving it to the driver.
Troopers can also access the TexasSure program to verify insurance. TexasSure is a secure database that matches the records of registered passenger vehicles in Texas to personal auto insurance policy data submitted by 200-plus Texas insurance companies. With the information at their fingertips, troopers can instantly verify whether a vehicle has auto liability coverage required by state law.
"It makes the job much smoother," said Trooper Allen Burleson.
Troopers agree the implementation of the computers is best for all involved and are more efficient not only for themselves, but for the safety of the drivers on local highways.
The effort to equip all troopers with in-car computers is sweeping across Texas and is now finishing up in the Houston and Austin areas.
The $15 million project, approved in the last legislative session, is mostly complete. All areas of Texas now have at least some patrol units equipped with the wireless technology.
When the project is completed, nearly 2,000 Highway Patrol and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement units will have the in-car computers.
"We appreciate the Legislature providing us with this capability'' said interim DPS Director Stanley E. Clark. "From an officer safety and efficiency standpoint, this puts our troopers on the cutting edge and moves us light years ahead in our law enforcement capabilities."
DPS is also testing in-car computers in the Texas Ranger and Criminal Law Enforcement divisions.
To see more of The Orange Leader or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to
http://www.orangeleader.com. Copyright (c) 2008, The Orange Leader, Texas
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