Crime Information/Prevention Kiosk

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2015

The Crime Prevention/Informational Kiosk was established to enhance community awareness regarding Public Safety issues. Although law enforcement agencies communicate quickly among themselves, the speed at which information is passed to the community varies. Utilizing today’s technological advancements on an old twist (paper flyers) resulted in a stand-alone information center. Using Linux based software, host agencies create campaigns which are sent to a screen divided into three portions through a wireless Virtual Private Network. Information involving Amber and Silver Alerts, Public Service Announcements and the communities Most Wanted appear daily on the Kiosk. Information can be updated through a computer connection or smart phone. In one community the Kiosk has become a recognized platform for the dissemination of information to the public. During a 9 month period, information provided to the community has resulted in a 50 percent apprehension rate. Following the Kiosk debut in Marion County Florida other counties have begun to acquire the units. The ultimate goal is to establish a statewide network allowing for the dissemination of Public Safety related information locally, regionally and statewide to enhance law enforcements ability to locate missing and endangered individuals as well as the identification and apprehension of wanted persons.