Technology Takes the Lead in Yuma Police Department’s Crime Prevention Efforts

Advances in technology are transforming the way local police departments approach crime prevention. In our community, the Yuma Police Department (YPD) is utilizing various tools, such as drones and license plate readers, to enhance their efforts to keep the community safe. These technologies have been made possible through grants and are a top priority for YPD officers, who live and work in the community they serve. According to Sgt. Lori Franklin of the YPD Public Affairs, the ultimate goal is to protect and safeguard the community where officers themselves reside.

While YPD relies on its own technology, it also recognizes the importance of community involvement in crime prevention. Technologies like ring cameras and security cameras are valuable resources that aid law enforcement in solving crimes. Sgt. Franklin emphasized that technology plays a crucial role in identifying and solving criminal activities in the community.

Another law enforcement agency within the county leveraging technology for crime prevention is Somerton Police Department, which has seen an increase in technology-based crimes compared to physical ones. Lt. Jose Garza of Somerton Police Department highlighted how phones provide a critical opportunity to solve crimes by accessing data through Greykey software, which was recently acquired with funding from a grant from the Department of Emergency and Military Affairs. This software assists in downloading and analyzing data from phones and laptops to gather evidence, further enhancing their capabilities in investigating crimes within their jurisdiction.

To learn more about how local police departments are utilizing technology for crime prevention, tune into News 11 on Wednesday, May 1st at 6:00 pm for a special report featuring interviews with representatives from both departments discussing their strategies and experiences using advanced technologies to keep communities safe.