The Columbia Police Department (CPD) is actively seeking community feedback on proposed technology upgrades to enhance public safety and operational efficiency.
These upgrades involve renewing and advancing the department’s existing Axon technology package, including tools such as Axon Fleet 3, Axon Signal, Axon Body-Worn Cameras, and Axon Evidence Management.
To ensure these technologies align with community expectations and needs, CPD is hosting a series of presentations and feedback sessions.
CPD’s Technological Evolution
Over the years, CPD has progressively integrated technology to bolster its law enforcement capabilities:
- 2005: Introduction of Axon Tasers to enhance non-lethal response options.
- 2011: Initiation of trials with various camera systems to explore potential benefits.
- 2012: Procurement of 102 Taser AXON cameras at a cost of $100,000, launching a pilot program with select officers.
- 2014: Department-wide implementation of body-worn cameras, mandating their use by all uniformed officers during public interactions and patrols. Concurrent adoption of Axon Evidence Management (Evidence.com) to streamline digital evidence handling.
Proposed Technological Enhancements
The current proposal includes significant upgrades to CPD’s technological toolkit:
- Axon Fleet 3: This system introduces in-car cameras equipped with automated license plate recognition (ALPR) technology. ALPR assists officers in identifying stolen vehicles and locating wanted suspects, thereby improving law enforcement efficiency while upholding high standards of privacy and data protection.
- Axon Signal: Designed to enhance officer accountability and safety, Axon Signal enables the automatic activation of body-worn and in-car cameras in response to specific triggers, such as drawing a Taser or firearm, or activating emergency lights or sirens. This automation reduces the risk of missed recordings and ensures critical incidents are documented without manual intervention.
- Axon Evidence Management: The proposed upgrade includes Auto-Tagging Technology, which automatically applies metadata—such as case numbers, locations, and timestamps—to recordings. This feature minimizes manual data entry, reduces errors, and ensures accurate, transparent documentation, thereby strengthening public trust and streamlining evidence management processes.
Community Engagement and Feedback Opportunities
CPD emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the decision-making process for these technological upgrades.
To facilitate this, the department, in collaboration with Axon representatives, is conducting a series of presentations to inform the public and gather feedback:
- Presentation Topics: Detailed overviews of Axon Fleet 3, Axon Signal, Axon Body-Worn Cameras, and Axon Evidence Management.
- Dates and Locations: Multiple sessions are scheduled across various community centers and public venues to accommodate diverse schedules and maximize participation.
- Online Feedback: For those unable to attend in person, CPD has established an online platform at BeHeard.CoMo.gov where residents can review the proposed policies and provide their input.
Police Chief Jill Schlude underscores the initiative’s objective: “Public safety is our number one priority, and we believe this technology will support that mission. With your feedback, we can ensure this technology effectively supports our efforts to keep our residents safe.”
How These Upgrades Improve Safety & Transparency
The integration of these advanced technologies is anticipated to offer several benefits:
- Enhanced Crime-Fighting Capabilities: Real-time data and automated systems can lead to more efficient identification and apprehension of suspects.
- Improved Accountability: Automatic recording of critical incidents ensures transparency and can serve as valuable evidence during investigations.
- Streamlined Operations: Automated evidence tagging and management reduce administrative burdens, allowing officers to focus more on community engagement and proactive policing.
However, it is crucial to address potential concerns related to privacy, data security, and the scope of surveillance.
Engaging the community in discussions ensures that these technologies are implemented in a manner that respects civil liberties while enhancing public safety.
Proposed Axon Technology Upgrades
| Technology | Features | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Axon Fleet 3 | In-car cameras with automated license plate recognition (ALPR) | Assists in identifying stolen vehicles and wanted suspects; enhances operational efficiency. |
| Axon Signal | Automatic activation of body-worn and in-car cameras triggered by specific officer actions | Ensures critical incidents are recorded without manual intervention; enhances accountability and transparency. |
| Axon Evidence Management | Auto-Tagging Technology that applies metadata (case numbers, locations, timestamps) to recordings | Reduces manual data entry; minimizes errors; ensures accurate and transparent documentation. |
The Columbia Police Department’s initiative to upgrade its technological infrastructure represents a significant step toward modernizing law enforcement practices in the city.
By actively seeking community feedback, CPD demonstrates its commitment to transparency, accountability, and collaborative decision-making.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming presentations or provide their input online to help shape the future of public safety in Columbia.