Mobile devices have saved Police Scotland 444,496 hours of officer time up by providing the ability to conduct checks and carry out administrative without having to return to the station.
This figure is based on the minutes saved per officer in their daily duties.
This means officers can spend more time in communities dealing with incidents, supporting victims and working on crime prevention.
For example when investigating missing person enquiries, frontline police can now upload and share images immediately with fellow officers, ensuring quicker action.
Superintendent Craig Smith of Police Scotland’s Digitally Enabled Policing Programme said: “Mobile working for response, community officers and frontline specialist officers is a major milestone which is positively changing the operational policing approach in Scotland.
“Our officers now have vital information at their fingertips meaning they can react quickly when dealing with incidents, searching for missing people who could be extremely vulnerable or investigating crimes.
“This piece of kit is revolutionising the way officers work and is helping to keep people safe.
“The devices will be further enhanced over time with the addition of future policing applications, including national systems as they become available.”
David Crichton, vice chair of the Scottish Police Authority said: “The introduction of mobile working was much needed and has brought real benefits to the police and the public by making the service more responsive, visible and efficient.
“Communities are better served and better protected as a result and the authority is committed to making the case for continued investment in technology to ensure that policing in Scotland keeps pace with changing needs and demands.”
Justice secretary Humza Yousaf added: “I am very pleased to see that the investment in mobile technology has released considerable police officer time in just one year.
“This innovative technology is helping to transform policing and allows Scotland’s officers to increase their focus on engaging with the public and keeping our communities safe.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
