|
Derailing Crime The Guilford Rail System Police Department has a new tool to use in dismantling crime along the lines, a computer. Former Salem, NH, Police Lieutenant Dennis O'Brien, now a Systems Analyst in Guilford's Information Systems Department, has developed the AS-400 criminal tracking system. A suspect's complete criminal record is now available in seconds. "It's invaluable," said Captain John Holland. "Now our guys in the field know if the suspect they are detaining has a previous record which might compromise their safety." While the safety aspect of this new program can't be understated, the cost savings is considerable. The installation and new software of comparable systems run in the range of $100,000. Not counting man hours, the cost to Guilford Rail: $0. Before joining Guilford Rail, O'Brien had been on the Salem Police Force until he retired with 21 years of service. While O'Brien was sent to IBM training classes by the Salem P.D., he was primarily self-taught. "That came out of necessity," said O'Brien. "There came a time in the late 70's where it was obvious that computerization was the only way to make all of the records available." According to O'Brien, it was time to "round file" the department's index card system. The new program not only keeps the officers better informed while in the field, it allows the department to analyze statistical data to better deploy their officers. Crimes can now be broken down by type and by a specific section of railroad. "The Guilford Rail Police had been developing this idea for some time," said O'Brien. "I just had more training." |
|
Please address any comments, suggestions, or questions to the Webmaster This page was last updated on Thursday, January 25, 2001 10:22:17 AM
|