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Paving the Way: A Data System in Southeast Michigan Builds a Pathway to Better Information Sharing Between Agencies

NCJ Number
214724
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 33 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2006 Pages: 74,76-80,82,83
Author(s)
Joseph Brehler
Date Published
May 2006
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article describes the features of CLEMIS (Courts and Law Enforcement Management Information Systems), which is an information sharing system for public safety agencies in southeast Michigan (Oakland County).
Abstract
CLEMIS currently supports the following services and systems for public safety: computer aided dispatch (CAD) with geographical information system (GIS) support, mobile data communications, a records management system, prisoner processing (electronic fingerprinting and mugshot systems), and personalized training services combined with a professionally staffed 24-hour help desk. This article reviews the organizational history of CLEMIS, which was founded in 1968. The CLEMIS Advisory Committee provides direction and sets policy for all participating agencies. Some of its areas of responsibility include data security issues, support of CLEMIS application development, and approval of new participants. Over the years, the largest boost to the consortium's expansion and success came through a $17.6-million award from the 1999 COPS MORE Technology Grant. This grant gave CLEMIS the funding to leverage its technology and resources. In addition to this funding assistance, CLEMIS members provide membership fees. Member departments are billed according to their use of the system. CLEMIS membership is limited to southeast Michigan agencies that surround Oakland County. CLEMIS finalizes all hardware and software specification under a county bid process, which simplifies the procurement process for participating agencies. Standardization across CLEMIS membership provides better compatibility of information sharing processes. Advancements in CLEMIS planned for 2006 and 2007 are a regional automated fingerprint identification system, portable in-car biometric devices, and an automated wanted and warrant check from fingerprint submissions.