Police in Highlands go hi-tech

Police officers in the Highlands and Islands will start using mobile devices as part of their operational duties which will increase their visibility within local communities.

Officers will be able to access a wide range of police systems while out on duty without the requirement to return to a police station and log on to a computer.

This means that officers will be able to spend more time working within the community, dealing with incidents, engaging with members of the public, supporting victims and focussing on crime prevention.

Previously, when officers dealt with a crime, they would have to return to base to record details of an incident on the appropriate systems and complete paperwork.

The new mobile devices will mean that every operational police officer will be able to connect to police systems whilst working remotely.

The devices were first introduced in Tayside in June this year and they subsequently introduced in the North East in July.

The mobiles will provide apps enabling officers carry out checks and file crime reports. Officers will also be able to type statements directly to the device through the use of its digital notebook function Pronto which will obtain an electronic signature from victims and witnesses.

Chief Superintendent George Macdonald, Highland and Islands divisional commander, said: "The introduction of mobile technology is a major milestone which will positively enhance the operational policing approach in the Highland and Islands.

"Over the last two years, we have seen a significant investment and upgrade in our IT systems to enable us to take advantage of technology.

"Given the geography of the area, officers do incur significant travel time between calls and their stations, the mobile device will allow officers to be more visible in the community, spend more time on patrol and hopefully be more accessible within the areas they serve.

"Members of the public will see police officers operating their mobile device in public areas. It is important they understand they are not using their personal telephone and that they are working, but be reassured they will always be available to offer help, advice or assistance if needed."

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