Federal law requires every vehicle “manufactured in one stage” (e.g., where one manufacturer makes the parts and assembles them into a completed vehicle) to have a unique VIN consisting of seventeen alphanumeric characters. VINs help the government regulate vehicles in important ways, including: To make VINs as useful as possible, federal regulations require the VIN … Read more
Drunk and drugged drivers kill tens of thousands of people in the United States each year, including hundreds in Missouri. Missouri’s Implied Consent law helps patrol officers immediately remove these dangerous drivers from the streets. The following is a brief overview of a few of the law’s many requirements and procedures. Under this law, anyone … Read more
Communication is the lifeblood that keeps the operation running smoothly in the emergency communications center (ECC). Every word exchanged can significantly influence not only the immediate outcomes of critical situations but also the morale and effectiveness of the team. There’s no denying the power our voices and words have on the outcome of emergency calls … Read more
To be effective, law enforcement officers must keep current with changes in the criminal laws. In this year’s session, many criminal offenses were amended and new ones added. Some amendments to existing criminal offenses include: New offenses include: Some other changes include increased authority for law enforcement to request audits of governmental agencies suspected of … Read more
Chapter 610, Missouri Revised Statutes, is called the “Sunshine Law.” It governs what materials governmental agencies must disclose to the public upon request. The law is designed to foster a healthy democracy by increasing transparency in government, limiting corruption, creating a better-informed public, and improving public trust. The Sunshine Law applies to “public governmental bodies.” … Read more
In this year’s session, the Iowa Legislature passed many laws relevant to law enforcement and the justice system. These laws went into effect no later than this July. Officers are responsible for knowing and understanding the changes that relate to the execution of their duties. Some of these laws create new criminal offenses covering specific … Read more
In the high-stress environment of an emergency communications center (ECC), burnout, compassion fatigue, and anxiety can take a heavy toll on the mental health and well-being of 911 professionals. It is a crisis of national proportions that is plaguing our ECCs today. Many telecommunicators are feeling overwhelmed, unmotivated, and uninspired, causing them to lose their … Read more
With a focus on helping public safety professionals make effective and ethical decisions, Police Legal Sciences, Inc. (PLS) has been a trusted partner for public safety agencies and individuals for 25+ years. PLS online reality-based training takes a unique approach by using real court cases, lawsuits, and 911 calls as the foundation for our lessons. … Read more
In the heart of emergency response lies the 911 center, a conduit of information where every second counts, and every call holds potential to save lives. Within this vital space, toxic negativity can seep in, corroding morale, and hindering effective operations. Combatting this toxicity demands more than just addressing behaviors; it requires a fundamental shift … Read more
A serious problem in Britain’s history and in Colonial America was the practice of using torture or other coercion to force people to confess to crimes. The Fifth Amendment in the United States Constitution’s Bill of Rights addresses this through the right against self-incrimination: “No person . . . shall be compelled in any criminal … Read more
Let’s start with a question. “What do you think of when you see or hear the term, ‘Next Generation 911?’” I imagine that your head is filled with images of emergency communications centers (ECCs) receiving video clips or still images of emergencies in real time, or a passerby pointing their iPhone in the direction of … Read more
In recent years, transgender inmate rights have emerged as a critical issue within the realm of corrections. The complex intersection of gender identity and incarceration presents unique challenges for correctional facilities nationwide. Transgender individuals can find themselves faced with incidents of harassment and violence behind bars. Transgender inmates often present several questions within correctional settings, … Read more
In moments of crisis when every second counts, the first point of contact with emergency services can significantly influence the outcome of the situation. Emergency dispatchers serve as the vital link between individuals in distress and the assistance they urgently require. Beyond merely relaying information, these unsung heroes possess the power to shape the entire … Read more
Have you ever heard someone say, “I’m just a dispatcher,” or perhaps, “I’m just a call taker?” Maybe you’ve found yourself thinking these kinds of “I’m just…” thoughts. Long gone are the days of the “911 Operator” who sat fixed in their chair in front of rows of blinking lights indicating incoming calls, manually connecting … Read more
Every 911 call presents a unique set of challenges for dispatchers, and many have complex psychological elements. Some calls may involve individuals grappling with mental illness or emotional distress, and having a keen understanding of these factors can help dispatchers effectively manage such situations. Recognition of Mental Health Crisis It is not uncommon for … Read more
As we return to election season, jail officials must be mindful that they may be required to provide inmates with a method of casting a ballot. Depending on the state, people convicted of a felony are often ineligible to vote. However, many jail inmates have not been convicted of a felony, and many states have … Read more
Police Legal Sciences (PLS) is excited to announce our new partnership with the American Jail Association (AJA). This alliance aims to enhance the professional development and effectiveness of correctional officers by providing greater access to difficult-to-obtain legal education. In 2020, PLS released Jail Pro, our online reality-based corrections caselaw training, to provide regular legal updates … Read more
Telecommunicator Week is a fantastic opportunity for agencies to recognize and appreciate the hard work and dedication of their telecommunicators. Many agencies have implemented some great events and activities to celebrate their teams. Here are some ideas that may help you show your appreciation: While you are making plans for Telecommunicator Week, DON’T FORGET YOUR … Read more
Although the exact process and timeline varies between certifying bodies, most EMD-certified dispatchers are required to complete 24 hours of continuing dispatcher education (CDE) during every two-year recertification period. There are many reasons for this continuing education requirement. Regular training is important as it helps dispatchers stay up to date on protocols and guidelines, adapt … Read more
Join Us on the Road: Police Legal Sciences’ Conference Exhibition Schedule for 2024 Police Legal Sciences is committed to staying at the forefront of the public safety industry and connecting with professionals like you. That’s why we are excited to announce our lineup of conferences and events for the year 2024! Here’s where you can … Read more