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Last updated on Thursday, December 19, 2013
(INDIANAPOLIS) - The DNR Law Enforcement Division has been awarded an Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) for $197,620 to upgrade the technology of its communications system.
"This grant will allow us to purchase a computer aided dispatch (CAD) module that will interface with our current records management system (RMS) and increase our officers safety and response time," said Maj. Michael Portteus.
The CAD system allows dispatchers to digitally communicate by assigning available officers without the need for voice transmission.
The DNR Law Enforcement Division is responsible for the enforcement of natural resource and recreational laws throughout the state and employs 214 conservation officers. All dispatch responsibilities are carried out by 10 dispatchers who staff the Central Dispatch Center located near Bloomington.
"Central Dispatch operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and handles all telephone calls, radio transmissions, radio log entries and citizen complaints for Indiana Conservation Officers," said Lt. Bryant Lucas, who supervises Central Dispatch. "Since Jan. 1, Central Dispatch has averaged 606 entries per day for a total of 212,418 entries."
Portteus said, "With this purchase we will be able to integrate the citizen call, dispatcher communication and officer report within one RMS, allowing us to be a more efficient and effective law enforcement agency."
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