Sheriff testing new electronic ticketing program to increase efficiency and safety

SUBMITTED NEWS RELEASE

At a time when local governments are searching to save millions of dollars in efficiencies, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is testing a new mobile technology system that is expected to improve the efficiency and accuracy of accident investigations and citations, while increasing officer safety and saving taxpayer’s money.

The new hand-held electronic system from Brazos Technology will dramatically decrease the amount of time it takes for patrol personnel to write citations, handle misdemeanor complaints and investigate accident scenes. The system also provides increased connectivity to motorcycle units where on-board computers are not possible.

The system uses hand-held devices that scan barcodes on driver’s licenses and registration forms to accurately and quickly complete electronic forms. The Brazos system increases interaction between field units and law enforcement’s Tiburon system for report writing, records management and background checks.

“The goal is not to write more tickets,” said Sergeant Mike Gross with the Sheriff’s Patrol Division.” The goal is to make more efficient use of our reduced levels of staff.”

“Less time on the side of the road also increases officer safety as well as public safety because we are more available to respond to other calls for service,” Sergeant Gross said.

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is one of 17 Nevada Law Enforcement Agencies that are looking to incorporate Brazos Technology.

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office celebrates 150 years of proud service and community partnership in 2011. Sheriff Michael Haley is the 24^th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County.  His office continues to be the only full service public safety agency operating within northern Nevada and is responsible for operating the consolidated detention facility, regional crime lab, Northern Nevada Counter Terrorism Center, Internet Crimes against Children Task Force, court security, service of civil process and traditional street patrols. For more information, visit www.washoesheriff.com.