Fargo Police Highlight Technology Advancements That Help Solve Crimes
FARGO, N.D. — Over the past year, the Fargo Police Department has implemented several technological advancements aimed at improving efficiency and crime-solving capabilities across the city. Key developments include enhanced body cameras, strategically placed surveillance cameras, and an expanded Real Time Crime Center.
Captain Troy Hannig of the Fargo Police Department emphasized the importance of staying ahead in technology to combat crime. “We’re using the newest technology, but you can recognize the criminals are using similar technology, so we constantly need to stay on the cutting edge, and things are evolving so fast in that realm,” Hannig said. He added that even when officers think they have equipped the best available technology, newer and better products often emerge quickly.
One major upgrade involves the use of ‘Axon Draft One’ body cameras worn by officers during their shifts. These devices not only record video but also transcribe audio narrations in real-time. “So if I show up on scene and narrate what I’m seeing, it will take that into the transcription and will improve my report,” Hannig explained, highlighting how this feature aids in creating more accurate and detailed incident reports.
Another significant technological tool now aiding Fargo police efforts are the Flock cameras installed throughout the city. These cameras are designed to alert law enforcement when a vehicle or person of interest linked to a crime is detected. The cameras are positioned strategically to maximize coverage and effectiveness, helping officers respond more swiftly to incidents.
At the heart of these efforts is the Real Time Crime Center housed within Fargo Police headquarters. This center has access to hundreds of cameras spread across the city, allowing officers to gain immediate intelligence that can lead to faster crime resolution. Captain Matthew Christensen described the center’s vital role, stating, “Trying to get that real-time intelligence that is very beneficial to solving crimes a lot faster than they would’ve been in the past.”
Despite the advances in technology, Fargo police recognize that the unpredictable nature of human behavior remains a challenge in law enforcement. Captain Bill Ahlfeldt remarked, “You can’t predict what a human being is going to do, you can try, you can have a pretty good guess, but at the end of the day, you just don’t know what another person is thinking or what they are going to do. Each case is different, and every investigation is different. Some take longer just because of what people are doing and we’re reacting.”
Looking ahead, the Fargo Police Department has plans to expand its Real Time Crime Center within the next year, aiming to bolster its surveillance and analytical capabilities to further enhance public safety.
The integration of these technological tools demonstrates Fargo’s commitment to leveraging innovation in public safety efforts, working diligently to adapt and respond in an ever-evolving criminal landscape.
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