Staff Report

Recovering evidence and resolving allegations of officer misconduct just got easier for the Suffolk Police Department, thanks to a $75,000 federal grant.

U.S. Rep. J. Randy Forbes, representing the fourth congressional district inclusive of Suffolk, announced the award on Monday.

Forbes requested funding for the project from the House Appropriations Committee in order to equip police department vehicles with mobile data terminals and in-car cameras. This enhanced technology will enable Suffolk law enforcement officers to remotely complete required reports and receive dispatched calls for service.

&uot;When our police officers are on the streets they need the most up-to-date technology that is available,&uot; Forbes said. &uot;These data terminals and cameras, which will be located in the squad cars, give officers the ability to maximize their efficiency, and ultimately that means a safer and better community for the residents of Suffolk.&uot;

Officers will utilize mobile data terminals to access prior arrest records and call records, and retrieve records from state police to check wanted suspects, stolen property or driver status.

Offers rely on in-car video cameras to recover evidence and resolve allegations of officer misconduct.