Operation DETER: Reducing Violent Crime in West Memphis

The FY 2017 Technology Innovation for Public Safety (TIPS) Addressing Precipitous Increases in Crime is designed to enable strategic information sharing across crime-fighting agencies and with identified partnerships to address specific local or regional crime problems. This program is funded under the "reserved funds" section (42 U.S.C. section 3756(b)(1)) of the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program. The "reserved funds" section provides that up to 5 percent of the funds available to carry out the JAG Program may be granted for one or more of the purposes specified at 42 U.S.C. section 3751 upon a determination that such a grant is necessary ‘to combat, address, or otherwise respond to precipitous or extraordinary increases in crime, or in a type or types of crime. 42 U.S.C. section 3756(b)(1).

The West Memphis Police Department (WMPD) will use technology in the form of software, hardware, and closed circuit cameras. With its recently acquired advanced analytics software platform (Lumen), the WMPD will purchase tablets and mobile data terminals to push out maps and information to its officers and detectives. Further, the Department will purchase a CJ IS-compliant software program to add to its intelligence information. These technologies will enable strategic information sharing within the department and with local and regional agencies.

There are four major goals for this project:
Goal 1. Reduce violent crime in West Memphis.
Goal 2. Promote information sharing and collaboration within the West Memphis Police Department and neighboring agencies that have a role in preventing and investigating crime.
Goal 3. Develop and enhance policies and practices that leverage technology to promote
improved investigations and decision making which results in crime reduction.
Goal 4. Conduct ongoing research and evaluation to improve the data systems, policies, and practices of WMPD.
CA/NCF