COPS Program Seeks Interoperability Projects

Grants are available for targeted jurisdictions to build regional communications projects

By Darby Patterson, - June 16, 2003

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Community Oriented Policing program is not new. But, it has taken on new relevance as first responders throughout America look to sharpen their skills and acquire additional training. It was launched in 1994 as new kind of policing effort that would engage the community in public safety issues and to increase the number of sworn police officers. Since then, according to Timothy Quinn, chief of staff for the U.S.

Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, the COPS program has funded 13,000 of the nation's approximately 18,000 law enforcement agencies. "The word is out," Quinn said. "Our funding comes through the budget and appropriations process for each fiscal year. We then look at those appropriations and fashion programs to get the money out."

Since 9-11, the resources offered through the COPS program have become increasingly important. "The message of the COPS office is that many of the strategies we use are also the strategies that will enhance homeland security," Quinn said.

At the same time, regional and collaborative projects have become increasingly important. "This year the COPS office has been given $60 million to help with the issue of interoperability," Quinn said, adding that FEMA has similar funds to disperse. "In this project we are encouraging them [first responders] to reach out to law enforcement partners in their area."

It is not every local jurisdiction, however, that will have a chance to apply for funds. "We will be sending out letters to 77 jurisdictions inviting them to participate for funding of up to $6 million," Quinn explained. The cities that are invited to apply will develop proposals that include regional collaboration that foster interoperability. A board of experts will review the submissions and select those that are feasible within the funding limits. Quinn said he expects the invitations to be sent out within the next few weeks and awards to be made by the end of September.

"It is mainly for voice communications," Quinn explained. "It's making sure people can talk to each other, quite simply."

The COPS program has also developed a set of technology guidelines for local law enforcement officials. Quinn said that resources vary in cities and counties. Often, the technology "expert" in a small police or sheriff's department has won his or her position by default -- being the sole individual with an interest in, or knack for, technology.

"COPS has always been sensitive to that," Quinn said. "We try to keep the burden as light as possible for our customers which are local law enforcement officers." But, with the heightened demands of homeland security, technology has become a necessary tool in the arsenal of even small policing agencies.

"We put together a guide for making technology purchases," Quinn explained. "We take them through the entire process -- how to develop specification and work with a vendor. How to implement a system." Quinn added that the guide does not recommend specific technologies or providers. "I look at this as analogous to a Home Depot guide on how to build a deck in your backyard," he said. The guide is available through the COPS Web site.

The program also provides free training for first responders and also for citizens at COP's facilities. "There is no one who doesn't have a role to play in public safety," Quinn said. "Everyone can make a contribution."

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