Summary: What’s the best way to curtail crime in New York City? Give NYPD officers Android devices, of course! Over the past year, the New York Police Department gave out 400 Android smartphones to officers. The phones aren’t used to make or receive calls, but instead use a data connection and a custom app to look up arrest files, criminal histories, police photographs and even information from the DMV. The phones give officers quick access to look up anyone with an arrest warrant, police summons or other information they might need. How’s it work? An officer simply types in a street address in the app and all relevant information will pop up. Officers say they can use this information to notice arrest patterns and figure out crime hotspots they might want to spend extra time in. It's a great example of New York's Finest using technology to help them fight crime, and a great tool to help us succeed in a connected world.
