How Police Use GPS tracking devices?

GPS tracking devices are devices which use the Global Positioning System to determine as well as track the location of objects, entities, people, name it! GPS devices utilize the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) network to track and locate. The GNSS network utilizes a variety of satellites that use microwave signals transmitted to GPS devices to offer information about location, time, direction, speed among other important information. GPS tracking devices have numerous applications. Our focus in this article will however be on law enforcement.

How do the police use GPS tracking devices?

In an effort to reduce expenses as well as improve performance, police departments in many countries around the world have incorporated GPS trackers to help in surveillance efforts among many other purposes. Below is an in-depth discussion on the main ways police are using GPS trackers.

1. Police force management 

This is by far one of the most notable GPS applications in law enforcement today. Many police forces today utilize GPS in their day-to-day activities. GPS units installed in police vehicles help police departments find police cars closest to crime scenes. This application helps the police respond faster to emergencies. GPS units also help in making sure police officers stick to their assigned zones. The devices also help the police get directions as well as traffic updates which increase their overall efficiency. All these applications contribute directly to better police force management.

2. Locating criminals & gathering evidence

GPS trackers aren’t useful in police cars only. The police also use GPS trackers to locate criminals.
Many police forces are now firing GPS tracking ''bullets'' at vehicles used by criminals during chases. Police officers also affix GPS trackers to suspects’ vehicles in evidence gathering operations. With the GPS devices in place, it’s easier to locate criminals, monitor them as well as gather substantial evidence warranting arrest and successful convictions. In many states in America, GPS is the most popular technique used by the police to locate criminals and gather evidence. The police also use GPS trackers to track suspicious cargo such as contraband, drugs, stolen/missing vehicles etc. 

3. Tracking paroled inmates

Many police departments also offer prison inmates GPS bracelets before they are released on parole. This application makes it easier to track paroled inmates in case of any violations. GPS bracelets offered to paroled inmates are pre-programmed with a list of coordinates representing the places the paroled inmates can visit. In case the parolee ventures outside these coordinates, parole officers get an alert on the violation. This application has made it possible for police officers to track paroled inmates remotely. Before GPS trackers, parole officers needed to maintain physically presence to track parolees. This application has resulted in significant time, effort and cost savings. 

Summary

The above information summarises some of the main ways the police are using GPS tracking devices today. Although GPS applications in law enforcement can attract legal issues when the police don’t use GPS trackers according to procedure, the devices clearly have more advantages than disadvantages. GPS trackers have definitely made police work easier not to mention the cost and efficiency benefits.