State and Local Law Enforcement Wireless Communications and Interoperability: A Quantitative Analysis

Routine police work requires effective coordination and communication with other police agencies, fire departments, emergency medical services, and public service organizations. High-profile incidents—such as bombings, plane crashes, and natural disasters—test the ability of public safety and public service organizations to mount a well-coordinated response. Interoperability, the ability of different agencies to communicate across jurisdictions with each other, often depends on wireless radio communication systems. This Research in Brief presents findings from an NIJ-sponsored survey of the interoperability experiences and needs of law enforcement agencies across the Nation.