Posted 09/04/2010

Police in Stockton are taking advantage of the digital revolution by using Bluetooth technology to send messages and important policing updates to members of their local community.

The technology, which allows information to be shared wirelessly, is being used by mobile police units during patrols in the Stockton area, to communicate with anyone that has Bluetooth enabled on an electronic device, such as a mobile phone or PC.

Commenting on the move Chief Inspector Ted Allen said: “Most people own a mobile phone and the numbers of PDAs and other devices are increasing, all of which have Bluetooth technology which enable people to receive messages. We want to utilise this technology to communicate with people in a positive and effective manner.

“Whether it’s sending a message reminding people about the next Cuppa with a Copper meeting in their local area or reminding revellers in local pubs and clubs to stay safe, the technology can help us to reassure members of the public that we are here to offer them support and protection and that their safety is of the utmost importance to us.

“We will also be able to highlight when we are patrolling in local areas. This will reinforce to members of the public that we are there for them. This is particularly important for our Stay Safe operation where police patrols locate vulnerable young people who may be at risk, for example through getting involved in drinks and drugs as well as becoming victims of crime. Using Bluetooth we can let young people know we are in the area and there for them, as well as sending a message to parents to get them to question if they know where their child is and to highlight any dangers they may face.”

As well as sending safety messages the technology will also enable Stockton police to hammer home messages to criminals that they are being watched and if they attempt to commit a crime they will be caught.

The technology has many uses and will be utilised on an ongoing basis, but police are keen to reassure people that they won’t be bombarded with messages, as the system selects devices randomly and ensures repeat messages aren’t sent to devices which have previously been contacted.