The fight against crime in Memphis is getting a high-tech boost, as the Memphis Police Department (MPD) is slated to receive a hearty injection of federal dollars. Congressman Steve Cohen has secured $1.9 million for the department to advance its technological capabilities, expressly with the recent memory of Tyre Nichols in mind. "I have to say, I had to think about Tyre Nichols in doing this cause those lights showed crime. Crime committed upon Tyre Nichols," Cohen stated, according to Action News 5.
Seeking to remedy an understaffed force, Interim Chief CJ Davis acknowledges the pivotal role of technology. "We don't have enough manpower, so when you don't have enough human resources, technology can be a force multiplier," Davis explained, a sentiment echoed by Mayor Paul Young and reflected in a press conference they held. In line with this approach, funds are being allocated to a myriad of tech improvements, such as blue light cameras, body cameras for officers, and vital software upgrades. This from FOX13 Memphis.
Dividing the federal grant evenly, approximately half the funds are destined for the Sentinel Surveillance Cameras Project, which will receive about $963,000. The project's goal is to enhance the city's surveillance capacity, primarily aimed at curtailing crimes like auto theft. The rest of the funds are earmarked for the Officer Equipment Improvement Project, which promises better equipment to enhance the safety of Memphis police officers. Rep. Cohen, who was instrumental in obtaining the funding, spoke on the importance of addressing crime as a means to attract more residents to Memphis, as detailed by WREG.
Investments in tech are intended to supplement the human component of the Memphis Police, with hopes that advanced gadgets can stem the tide of crime in a tangible way.
