Connected cars are ‘mobile police stations’

Westbase Technology, partnered with Panasonic ProServices, has been working to deliver on-the-road connectivity that enables the creation of ‘mobile police stations’ for UK forces.

In a bid to spend more time in the community and to better inform officers on the road, police forces have been investing in mobile technology that allows them to securely access command and control systems, carry out database checks and access their desktop applications for e-mail, web and the intranet – all from their vehicles. The solution comprises the Panasonic Toughpad tablet, and Westbase’s Cradlepoint COR IBR600 and IBR1100 router products to provide reliable and secure on-the-road connectivity.

The Cradlepoint device creates a WiFi hotspot both in and around the vehicle – allowing officers to access real-time information using the Toughpads on the ground as well as in the car. The technology has also enabled the deployment of automatic numberplate and facial recognition technology, helping forces to identify vehicles and suspects of interest with greater accuracy and speed.

The solution has been rolled out across multiple constabularies including traffic and community police, and specialist teams such as armed response.

“There is no doubt that we are seeing the business and community benefits of these devices. They improve our access to information, which improves our crime intelligence and arrest rates. They also make our officers more visible by enabling them to be in the community for more of the time,” said Detective Chief Inspector Damien Kennedy, the project manager for mobile data in Hertfordshire Constabulary (taken from the Panasonic Toughpad Case Study).

Westbase is actively working with Panasonic ProServices to help deliver this solution to police forces across the UK, Ireland and Europe. Westbase will be exhibiting on Stand E73 at The Emergency Services Show 2015.