The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) is leading the charge in revolutionizing law enforcement through technology. Their mission: to create a safer environment for residents and businesses alike. Acknowledging the ever-evolving nature of crime, IMPD has embraced cutting-edge technology as a formidable weapon against illegal activities, bolstering public safety across the entire city.
Deputy Chief Kendale Adams of IMPD underscores the imperative of addressing the mobility of criminal activities, stating firmly that “crime doesn’t stay in one place.” To effectively counter this challenge, the department has transitioned from conventional patrolling to strategically placing cameras throughout the city. This transition is viewed as a game-changing advancement in the ongoing battle against crime.
At the heart of this technological transformation lies the Incident Analysis Center (IAC) situated at East District headquarters. Within this center, dedicated officers continuously monitor live video feeds from strategically positioned cameras citywide. While the IAC currently operates during business hours, IMPD is actively working to establish a 24/7 operation. To realize this ambitious goal, the 2023 budget allocates funds for hiring seven additional professionals and a dedicated supervisor for real-time video monitoring.
To bolster these expansion initiatives, IMPD has successfully secured funds from Project Safe Neighborhoods, a nationwide initiative that unites federal, state, and local partners in the fight against violent crime. These funds will play a pivotal role in enhancing the monitoring room at East District headquarters, resulting in more comprehensive coverage and heightened responsiveness.
Deputy Chief Adams underscores the transformative impact of technology, particularly the growing fleet of mobile trailer cameras. Currently, IMPD operates six of these mobile trailer cameras, with plans to add four more in the upcoming year. These cameras empower law enforcement to allocate resources more effectively in identifying individuals involved in violent activities.
IMPD’s unwavering commitment to technology-driven solutions is vividly demonstrated through various programs and innovations:
- Auxiliary Remote Pilot Program: Initiated in 2018, this program boasts 18 drones and 13 pilots. The department’s vision is to expand its drone fleet by 30 units in the 2024 budget, coupled with training and equipping 30 additional officers, ensuring 24/7 drone availability.
- Automated License Plate Readers: In 2023, IMPD added 63 automated license plate readers, bringing the total to 321. These readers are instrumental in identifying vehicles used in crimes, significantly contributing to investigations. In the proposed 2024 budget, the department seeks to add up to 150 more readers across the city.
- Mobile Trailer Cameras and Public Safety Cameras: In 2023, the department introduced six new mobile trailer cameras, raising the total to 12, providing approximately 60 different views. These cameras enable real-time video streaming, enhancing the identification of high-risk situations. Additionally, 32 new public safety cameras were installed, totaling nearly 100 cameras with around 250 views. IMPD plans to include up to 50 more cameras throughout the city in their 2024 budget.
- B-Link Technology: A collaborative initiative with the Indy Public Safety Foundation, B-Link allows local businesses to register their security cameras with IMPD, granting them livestream access. Presently, approximately 60 businesses are participating, with more expected to join by year-end.
- Gunshot Detection Technology: Although IMPD tested a gunshot detection system last year, the department has not yet made a financial commitment to deploy this technology. A selection committee is finalizing vendor selection, with procurement and contract negotiations to follow.
IMPD’s unwavering dedication to enhancing public safety through technology is further highlighted as they plan to propose significant funding for these initiatives in their 2024 budget presentation. This steadfast commitment underscores their primary focus: ensuring a safer and more connected future for the residents of Indianapolis. By embracing cutting-edge technology, IMPD is rewriting the playbook on law enforcement, demonstrating a resolute commitment to staying ahead of evolving crime trends and ensuring the well-being of all Indianapolis residents and businesses.
