As technology continues to improve and access becomes seamless, many LEAs are moving towards extending GPS to off-duty employment. While being tracked and/or on camera for anyone today seems ubiquitous, it begs the question: Is GPS really necessary in the off-duty job environment?
Here are the top three advantages of GPS functionality while working off-duty.
Provides businesses with a clear picture of when an officer is on-site
When an officer clocks in for an off-duty job using GPS functionality with their off-duty management software, there is no question that they are on-site providing security. This helps the business by simply providing a notification when the officer has clocked in and is on-site, in case they need to introduce them to personnel or notify them of any changes or known issues. It also serves as documentation in case a question arises.
“We really do trust our officers,” says Lieutenant Rober Rojas of El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. “The GPS [clock-in and clock-out] is our ability to go back and solidify what service was done and provided.”
Provides command staff with a clear picture of who is working at what location and when
It’s helpful for command staff to know when and where their officers are working, even if it’s in an off-duty capacity. GPS functionality can give them a clear picture at a glance of who is working off-duty at any given time and help ensure everyone is in compliance with agency policy. This is advantageous in case any challenges arise where a nearby officer may need backup. These details are also documented and easily accessible in case any questions arise from the business or the community.
It’s also advantageous for off-duty jobs that require a larger police presence. Command staff or other agency admins that have access to any job can see where officers are on-site and look for any potential holes in coverage.
Helps coordinators verify attendance
GPS clock-in and clock-out also help coordinators cut down on any back-and-forth with the client and/or the officer when it comes to an officer's whereabouts. If they get an inquiry from their client, a coordinator can see in real-time that an officer is on-site without having to text or call them. They can also verify attendance at a later date if a question arises.
GPS capabilities during off-duty work help the business check when an officer arrives and leaves, helps the coordinator verify attendance and helps provide command staff with details and oversight of where their officers are working - both in real-time and after the fact if an issue arises. Incorporating it helps create a successful and comprehensive off-duty program.
