What Is CLEAT?
Many of us responsible for computer systems within a Police Department have discussed forming a group to share resources and experiences. For example, if your department were interested in GIS, wouldn't it be nice to know that another department has recently started researching GIS and has secured funding from a viable grant? The same is true for creating SOP's on departmental e-mail and internet access or even writing an RFP. Why not obtain another agency's document and modify it for your department? We all have similar goals, and as the cliché goes, there is no need to "reinvent the wheel."
Several months ago, Felicia Donovan from the Portsmouth Police Department, took the initiative to form a group of persons responsible for computer systems within New England Police departments. We have held several meetings, and learned about various departments and to what extent they are/are not automated. Already, we have started sharing and have saved time, money and resources. Ideas have developed to "formalize" this group so we can be recognized within the State and possibly be entitled to grant monies. The desire to have input on statewide automation projects is also widespread amongst those agencies in attendance. One of the main incentives of this group is to establish some forms of communication and interoperability amongst New England Police Departments. We hope you'll consider joining CLEAT to become part of this exciting endeavour.