The Nerve Center of Crime Prevention: What Are Real-Time Crime Centers (RTCCs)?

TL;DR: Quick Overview

• What are RTCCs?: Centralized hubs for live data analysis and decision-making to assist officers in real-time.

• How do they work?: RTCCs use surveillance cameras, automated license plate readers (ALPRs), drones, and gunshot detection systems to monitor incidents and provide critical data to responding officers.

• How effective are they?: Studies show up to a 7% reduction in crime and an 11% improvement in case clearance rates.

• Where are they used?: Major cities like New York, Miami, Atlanta, and smaller agencies through partnerships.

• Can smaller departments use them?: Yes, through cross-training, partnerships, or scaled-down versions.

From Surveillance to Action—How Do RTCCs Operate?

RTCCs centralize data streams from various sources to provide officers with real-time insights. The tools include:

• CCTV Cameras: Monitoring high-crime areas and major events remotely.

• Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs): Scanning for vehicles connected to crimes or outstanding warrants.

• Gunshot Detection Systems: Detecting and pinpointing gunfire to immediately dispatch officers.

• Drones: Acting as “first responders,” streaming live aerial footage to the command center.

RTCC operators monitor these feeds, analyze threats, and provide officers with crucial data before they arrive on the scene. This proactive approach enhances both officer and public safety.

RTCCs can also help officers investigate crimes retroactively, providing vital evidence like video footage or vehicle movements. For example, the Albuquerque RTCC identified a hit-and-run suspect by analyzing surveillance footage and cellphone data​.

Technology That Saves Lives: The Impact of RTCCs

Studies have shown that RTCCs deliver measurable results. Chicago’s decentralized RTCC system reported a 3-7% reduction in violent and property crimes and a 12% improvement in property crime clearance rates after implementation. These centers have also improved response times, helping officers prevent situations from escalating.

Key benefits include:

• Increased Clearance Rates: Solving crimes faster by tracking suspects in real time.

• Proactive Policing: Identifying patterns and deploying resources strategically.

• Enhanced Officer Safety: Providing situational awareness to officers before they arrive on scene.

RTCCs are particularly effective in reducing crimes like auto theft. They identify stolen vehicles with ALPRs and track them across jurisdictions in real time.

Big City Tech, Small Town Dreams? Are RTCCs Feasible for All Agencies?

RTCCs have been adopted by major cities like New York and Miami, with more than 150 agencies nationwide now using them. However, smaller agencies might find the cost and complexity challenging. Despite these barriers, creative solutions exist:

• Cross-Training Dispatchers: Smaller departments can train dispatchers to assist with real-time analysis.

• Regional Collaborations: Neighboring departments can share RTCC resources.

• Public-Private Partnerships: Some cities, like Winston-Salem, leverage video feeds from businesses and public institutions, expanding surveillance capabilities without the high cost.

While larger cities with significant crime rates benefit most from RTCCs, smaller departments can still gain value by adopting scaled-down versions or partnering with other agencies.

Conclusion: The Future of Technology-Driven Policing

Real-Time Crime Centers are transforming law enforcement by providing officers with the information they need, exactly when they need it. They empower agencies to shift from reactive policing to proactive crime prevention, helping reduce crime and enhance public safety.

Whether you’re in a large city or a small town, the potential of RTCCs to make a difference is undeniable. As technology continues to advance, these centers will likely become more accessible and scalable, offering every department a chance to enhance their policing capabilities.

What’s Your Take?

Do you think RTCCs could benefit your department? Or have you had experience with one already? Share your thoughts in the comments, or forward this post to a fellow officer to spark the conversation.

References

• Police Magazine: How Technology Powers Real-Time Crime Centers

• Police1: How Real-Time Crime Centers Use Technology to Stop Crime

• Police1: Criminologist Insights on RTCC Effectiveness

Check out this RTCC from Albuquerque

@abqpolice

The Real Time Crime Center has evolved into a true real-time resource that can access modern technology like live cameras throughout the c... See more