INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AT THE PORT HOPE POLICE SERVICE

The Port Hope Police Service has been working to provide the latest technology to officers allowing them to become more efficient.

The Service was able to outfit all cruisers with Samsung Toughbook's which allow officers to be on the road with access to the records management system, providing real time information

The service has outfitted a cruiser with an Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR). The ALPR system uses infrared colour cameras and special software to read licence plates at a rate of up to 3,000 per hour and provide real time plate information to the officer.

With the rise in mental health calls the Service implemented the Health IM application to each officer's mobile device. Using Health IM officers complete a digitized version of the interRAI™ Brief Mental Health Screener (BMHS). The BMHS provides rapid on-scene evaluation of risk and uses clinically validated algorithms to assist in evaluating risk of harm and determining appropriate outcomes. Safety of a person with mental health challenges in acute crisis, the safety of first responders and involved healthcare personnel is paramount. In situations where an individual requires transportation to a hospital, a summary of on-scene observations and safety considerations is automatically generated and securely transmitted to the hospital prior to arrival.

Prior to Covid the Police service had invested in a court teleconference system that was used for Wash Court which is court on weekends and statutory holidays. The Accused would be able to appear in front of a Justice without having to be transported to court. This was a savings to the Service in transportation costs and officer time. With COVID and courts moving to the virtual environment this unit allowed the Service to be able continue with all court appearances with no additional resources or equipment.

The Port Hope Police service has upgraded technology in our existing facility, including network infrastructure, surveillance systems, interview room video, security, telephone, and radio communications.

The Service understands that security and information technology is vital to allow for Officers to be efficient and effective in providing services to the residents of the Municipality of Port Hope.