Question: What, if any, technologies should a police agency utilize to prevent and mitigate crime and acts of terrorism?

Expert answer

Technology can play a large role in both preventing and mitigating crime and acts of terrorism. CCTV cameras, for example, can be used to monitor areas for suspicious behavior, and thermal imaging can be used to detect explosives or people hiding inside buildings. In order to effectively prevent and mitigate crime and terrorist activity, it is important for police agencies to employ a variety of technologies that can be used in different situations.

One technology that has been shown to be effective in preventing and mitigating crime is predictive policing. Predictive policing uses data analytics to identify patterns of criminal behavior and target hotspots for increased police presence. This type of policing has been shown to reduce crime rates in a number of cities, including New York and Los Angeles.

Another technology that can be used to prevent and mitigate crime is body-worn cameras. Body-worn cameras are small, wearable cameras that record video and audio of police interactions with the public. The use of body-worn cameras has been shown to decrease the use of force by police officers, as well as the number of complaints filed against them.