The centralization and rapid deployment of police agency information technologies: An appraisal of real-time crime centers in the U.S.

Abstract

The newfound ability to deliver information to police in rapid timeframes has resulted in Real-Time Crime Centers (RTCCs) across the United States. Despite their emergence, little is known collectively about them. This study appraised the nature of RTCCs through a national survey of 44 police agencies. Findings revealed that (1) RTCCs have recently begun to diffuse rapidly but are still in an early innovation/adoption phase, (2) there is no single model of their use, (3) most procure a wide variety of technologies and information sources, and (4) most allow for information to be shared with partners in real-time.