Metropolitan Computer Aided Dispatch (METCAD)
Established in 1979 through a legal agreement between the University of Illinois, Urbana, and Champaign, METCAD has since expanded with the inclusion of the Sheriff's Office and Fire Communications. The organization has grown, and the implementation of enhanced 911 has contributed to METCAD's dispatch function. Recently, METCAD added Emergency Medical Dispatch to its capabilities.
Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS)
LEADS is a statewide computer system operated by the Illinois State Police, connecting virtually all local police departments and various State agencies. Urbana Police utilize the LEADS system to contact and query the FBI, the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), and most police departments in the United States. Since 1993, the Urbana Police Department has invested in Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) technology, mounted in marked squad cars and connected by radio to LEADS. Officers can check suspects' criminal history and warrants directly from the squad car.
National Crime Information Center (NCIC)
The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) is a computerized index of missing persons and criminal information and is designed for the rapid exchange of information between criminal justice agencies. Users access the NCIC computer located at FBI headquarters through regional or State computer systems or with direct tie-ins to the NCIC computer. The data is stored in 12 files: article, boat, Canadian warrant, gun, interstate identification index, license plate, missing person, securities, U.S. Secret Service Protective, unidentified person, vehicle, and wanted person.
Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP)
The STEP project by the Urbana Police Department involves concentrated traffic enforcement at specific sites in the city. Site selection is based on statistical data indicating areas with high-traffic accidents, such as the Lincoln Avenue corridor from Bradley Avenue to Florida Avenue. Input from citizens about traffic concerns in a particular area or neighborhood also contributes to site selection. The STEP project, aligned with Community Policing activities, emphasizes moving violations like speed, DUI, and accident-causing violations rather than parking issues.