The $26 million Law Enforcement Technology (LET) project, funded by U.S. Department of Justice grants, was developed and initiated by The Center in 2001 as a holistic approach to helping law enforcement agencies improve communications and in turn, public safety. In fact, the LET project is the most comprehensive law enforcement technology integration project ever undertaken in Kentucky.

The multi-phase LET program was designed to not only provide the greatest benefit to law enforcement agencies and the citizens they serve, but also to ensure compatibility and connectivity across the entire region. The program breaks down geographic barriers and also facilitates the sharing of critical, time-sensitive information across county lines and jurisdictions.

This project has already greatly improved information management in The Center’s 42-county service area by providing office-based hardware, software and Internet connectivity to local law enforcement agencies. Ruggedized laptop computers and related vehicle-mounted equipment have also been provided to personnel at these agencies. This equipment and associated training enables officers and deputies to work on reports in their cruisers instead of behind their desks, increasing their contact with the public, improving efficiency and reducing the probability of criminal activity.

Computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems—which include hardware and software that increase record-keeping capacity, speed the dispatching process, and use digital map data more efficiently—are also systematically being deployed in the region.

A region-wide wireless data network—the critical link that will enable communication across county lines and multiple jurisdictions—is now under construction and should be complete by late 2004. This infrastructure will be monitored, managed, and supported by the Information Technology Operations Center (ITOC).

Wireless connectivity will allow officers to receive requested information from local, state, and Federal sources almost instantaneously. Instead of calling an overloaded dispatch center, officers will have the ability to access a diverse array of databases for critical information during routine traffic stops, as well as critical life-threatening situations where seconds can make the difference.

The wireless network will not only improve officer response levels, but also enhance homeland security initiatives by providing access to building floor plans, photographic images and information on hazardous materials.

While The Center is aggressively implementing the LET project across the region, the latest information technologies are also evaluated on an ongoing basis in order to deliver the best solutions to law enforcement agencies and ensure that residents of Southern and Eastern Kentucky are protected with the finest police services available.

For more information about the LET project, please contact us.