About
The Howard County Police Department's Real Time Information Center (RTIC) is dedicated to using technology and available resources to improve how the department responds to public safety incidents. By giving officers the ability to react more quickly and effectively, the RTIC puts the safety of the community and first responders first, while still protecting privacy and civil rights.
FAQs
The Real Time Information Center draws on advanced technology to analyze information from sources such as cameras, license plate readers, and 911 calls, giving officers immediate access to information that helps them respond faster. This capability allows the department to spot crime trends, get ahead of potential threats, and keep Howard County safer for everyone who lives, works, and visits here.
• Cameras from public safety agencies and local government
• Automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras
• Body worn cameras (BWC)
• Computer-aided dispatch (CAD)
• Police car Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL)
• Drones
The RTIC aims to strengthen public safety and make law enforcement operations more effective. By relying on advanced technology and data analysis, the RTIC functions as a force multiplier, helping officers respond to incidents more efficiently, conduct investigations more thoroughly, and prevent crime before it happens. This investment reflects the department's ongoing commitment to innovation in community policing, ultimately supporting a safer community while continuing to safeguard civil rights and personal liberties.
Beyond its value as a law enforcement tool, the RTIC also represents a meaningful investment in the community itself. By encouraging collaboration and open communication between police, residents, and businesses, the RTIC helps build community trust and reinforces a shared responsibility for public safety.
The RTIC is a powerful resource for public safety, and the department recognizes that this power comes with responsibility. Safeguarding privacy and civil liberties is essential to the RTIC's long-term success. Earning and keeping the public's trust depends on transparency and strong safeguards, and the department remains committed to those tenants. All Criminal Justice Information (CJI) data is secured and projected through county and police department software and resources.
Clear guidelines and oversight are in place to prevent misuse of RTIC technology, which is used only for calls for service, criminal investigations, public safety threats, and authorized training. This careful balance between security and privacy allows the RTIC to serve the community effectively while staying true to the department's core values
In the coming months, the RTIC will offer options for residents and businesses to voluntarily participate in this partnership and provide access to their cameras in certain circumstances. More information will be forthcoming as the RTIC is rolled out in future phases.