Crime-mapping tool gets open data refresh

The CrimeReports crime-mapping web service from Motorola has been revamped to include chart, graph and trend tools from Socrata, the digital government service provider.

Launched more than 10 years ago, CrimeReports gives law enforcement agencies the ability to publish crime data from record management or computer-aided dispatch systems to an online map. The partnership with Socrata expands the public-facing data to include analysis that helps citizens understand crime and public safety in their community. Users can filter data by crime type, neighborhood or law enforcement patrol area and date range. The site now features a responsive design for mobile users and integrates with social media, allowing users to easily share their current view or a specific incident to their social networks. The service is also available on smartphones through CrimeReports mobile application.

Along with the improved tools, citizens can see how law enforcement is using its resources through 911 “calls-for-service” and crime incident data; users can set up alerts to receive crime notifications specific to their areas of interest. The service is also available on smart phones through CrimeReports mobile application.

The platform features a data feed that publishes up-to-date crime information from the last six months, crime trending analytics and federally syndicated sex offender data. CrimeReports also lets citizens submit tips anonymously and register the location of a fixed personal or commercial video camera to help with emergency response. Law enforcement will be able to push specific alerts to notify citizens of major events or safety issues.

The new CrimeReports aims to improve public safety and assist law enforcement and local governments meet federal mandates for accountability and transparency. The revamped platform can also help reduce time spent responding to Freedom of Information Act requests by providing the public with more data, said Tom Guthrie, vice president of Motorola Solutions Smart Public Safety.

Agencies can access CrimeReports for free or subscribe to CrimeReports Plus to display more data and access additional analytics and capabilities.