Voice-control units go on patrol
Saturday, June 17, 2006
nj.com

WOODBURY HEIGHTS -- Police officers here can use their in-car computers without having to use the keyboard, or even look at the screen.

Police Chief Leo Selb believes the software called "Virtual Partner" is something every police car in Gloucester County should have.

"Isn't a cop's life worth four grand?" he said. "Because that's what we're talking about here."

The software allows officers to speak commands, asking for lookups on license plate and drivers' license numbers, and for the MDT, or mobile data terminals, to say the answer aloud.

The most important result is that the program allows police officers to keep their eyes on the person or vehicle they're inquiring about, said Selb.

The information may also include warnings that the person involved is wanted, that he or she may be armed, even that the person is on a terrorist alert list, Selb said.

Demonstration software, which allows officers to speak to the MDT, but doesn't allow the MDT to talk back, has been installed in some police cars in Mantua, East Greenwich, Washington and Franklin townships, he said.

"It gives you a higher awareness before you even walk up to a car," Selb said. "I just think it's a great tool."

-- Jim Six