Police to Use Homeland Security Funds for CSI Equipment

New digital fingerprint readers, computers, a new phone system that will immediately call officers in the event of an emergency and some street warning signs are on the Santa Cruz Police Department's shopping list this week.

The list will be presented for approval at Tuesday's City Council meeting. The department has $85,000 to spend from a Homeland Security grant.

"The funding is much broader than just for terrorism," said police spokesman Zach Friend.

The equipment will help in various aspects of crime.

By the numbers:

$30,000: For software to schedule officers time. Right now, time cards are done on paper, said Friend. This will bring the department into the modern age. More importantly, it will include a system where officers can be reached immediately by phone in the event of an emergency.

$28,941: For evidence processing equipment—CSI: Crime Scene Investigation stuff—such as computer-read fingerprint systems. It will also include new computers to monitor Internet crimes against children and $5,000 of training for officers to use the equipment.

$16,241: Traffic warning signs. This money buys two portable flashing roadside signs to let people know about traffic congestion ahead. Up to now the department has rented them as needed.

$10,000: Thermal imaging rescue equipment. This is a device that will be shared with the fire department and will help people see in the dark or in a smoke-filled room. It works off body heat.

Over the years, SCPD has used the yearly grants to upgrade its communications system, buy a robot that can go into hazardous places, get gear for the dive team and train officers in disaster management, among other things.

The department's upgraded communications system proved invaluable a year ago, when cellphone transmission lines were cut, but the police dispatch system still worked, because it was on a new backup system.

Santa Cruz County has received $632,868 this year from Homeland Security, divided among law enforcement and first responders.