Law enforcement software improves policing practices and builds community trust. It automates report writing, investigations, and record management while reducing human error and improving public security and safety. Many law enforcement agencies implement law enforcement technology to increase efficiency and improve outcomes, which is important given the increased public attention to police tactics.
This guide presents trends in law enforcement, why you ought to consider the best software for police departments, and some examples with listed features to help you make informed decisions.
The year 2022 will bring more technological innovation and new challenges. The trends highlighted in this section can underpin agencies’ decisions on when and where they can leverage tools and software.
Community-Oriented Policing
In 2022, the United States community-policing initiatives will expand. The Department of Justice announced over $139 million in grant funding for this initiative, through which federal, state, and local agencies have prioritized reorienting their policing models to meet community needs. New programs will build trust between law enforcement and disenfranchised communities in rural areas, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Transparency
In 2020, there were 398.5 violent crimes per 100,000 Americans. Total property crime was 1,958.2 per 100,000 people. (Statista, 2021e) However, access to such statistics has been challenging. As such, future law enforcement transparency initiatives are likely. These go hand-in-hand with community-oriented policing. An agency may make crime rate statistics easily accessible or release high-profile or sensitive bodycam footage before FOIA requests or media pressure.
Anti-Bias Education
More of this is expected in 2022 with the Justice Department’s proposed 2022 budget. Anti-bias initiatives were proposed for $42 million this year. (Handler, 2021) These programs will expand everywhere in different ways.
Police Force Diversification
2022 will bring another graduating class, and efforts are directed toward diversifying recruitment. In New York State alone, 87% of troopers are white, and fewer than 12% are females. (Voorhees, 2021) As such, agencies and cop schools are gearing up to recruit with diversity in mind.
The force is looking into recruiting individuals with degrees in accounting, teaching, social work, and all different backgrounds. (Voorhees, 2021) This year will bring new law enforcement roles. More officers have technical skills and the ability to leverage smart technologies, which help cities reduce crime by 30% to 40% and response times for emergencies by 20% to 35%. (Deloitte, 2021) Meanwhile, data analytics tools are becoming more affordable and available so that smaller municipalities can hire people for these roles.
Biometrics Access Control
Biometric access controls will be expanded next year. This growth is in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, as a recent survey revealed that 48% of the respondents agreed that new technological solutions are needed to manage future pandemics. On top of that, digital identity had the most significant development in the biometrics industry last year, along with border control and security and national identity. (Biometric Institute, 2021) It makes sense for law enforcement to leverage this technology.
More than half of the polled professionals in 2021 agreed that biometrics would play a key role in enabling digital identities. A similar percentage agreed that identity verification systems and technologies would continue to grow. (Biometric Institute, 2021) In response, criminal investigations will use biometric records more often. The FBI recently introduced NGI, which it considers as the world’s largest and most efficient electronic repository of biometric and criminal history information. Suspect NGI and other systems will speed up suspect identification and background checks. (FBI, 2021)
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence is heavily used for service operations and product and service development in high tech and telecom, according to 39% and 37% of respondents, respectively. (McKinsey; Stanford University, 2021) Law enforcement is also gearing up to leverage it further. Several international bodies, including the United Nations, as well as several public safety software companies, evaluate future law enforcement AI applications and discuss their tactical, legal, and ethical implications. The NIJ supports AI research projects in public safety video and image analysis, DNA analysis, gunshot detection, and crime forecasting. (Redden et al., 2020)
Modern police technology generates a lot of data, too much for human analysts to crunch alone. Data volumes are expected to grow to 180 zettabytes by 2025. (Statista, 2021b) Thus, more AI analytics tools will replace overworked human analysts. Natural language processing (NLP), for instance, can help 911 call centers triage high-volume calls. Some precincts can translate foreign language calls to English and back to the caller’s native language.
Drones
Every year, pundits tout new law enforcement equipment as the next big thing, but few devices last. Nevertheless, the use of drones is becoming widespread from use in sensing and imaging for environment monitoring to maintaining public safety with law enforcement use. In public administration alone, 32% of drones were used for localization or detection in 2021, while 28% were used for mapping and surveying. (Droneii, 2022) Law enforcement drones are expected to survive in 2022.
While 318,000 of the drones registered in the U.S. are commercial drones (FAA, 2021), the police have been increasingly using drones for crime scene work, search and rescue, accident reconstruction, crowd monitoring, and more. Some models are equipped with thermal imaging or 3D mapping software for GPS-enhanced precision. Many police drones are equipped with zoom cameras, making them invaluable in high-risk, “armed and dangerous" situations.
Next-Generation Bodycams
As more cities and communities equip police departments with body-worn cameras, supervisors and the public can get a street-level view of on-duty police work. More bodycams are expected to be produced and used in the coming years, with the market growing to reach $1.5 billion by 2025. (Market Research Future, 2022)
According to the latest data from the National Institute of Justice, nearly a third of the agencies that acquired body-worn cameras in 2018 were local police departments. Nearly half were sheriffs’ offices. Expect that this year, with the release of next-generation body cameras, agencies will upgrade, and more agencies will also use this technology. Some models now have touchscreens and live playback controls to help officers review civilian videos and interactions. Other new cameras can be mounted on tripods for added surveillance when needed.
Best Practices For Implementing Law EnForcement Software
To maximize the potential of law enforcement software, agencies need to adopt strategic implementation practices. First and foremost, conducting a comprehensive needs assessment is vital. This ensures that the software selected addresses specific operational demands, whether it’s incident reporting, data analytics, or evidence management. Partnering with reputable vendors that prioritize user training and technical support further enables seamless transitions and long-term usability.
Integration capabilities are another critical factor. Ensuring that the software can merge with existing systems, such as computer-aided dispatch (CAD) or records management systems (RMS), minimizes disruptions and promotes efficiency. Additionally, scalability should be considered, allowing the software to grow alongside the agency’s evolving requirements.
Moreover, prioritizing user adoption is key. Agencies can foster acceptance by involving frontline officers and administrators in the selection and implementation process. Hosting workshops, providing detailed manuals, and offering continued training resources create a user-friendly environment that reduces reluctance and boosts productivity.
Data security remains paramount during implementation. Law enforcement agencies process sensitive information that must be protected against breaches. Opting for tools with strong encryption methods, regular vulnerability assessments, and real-time monitoring strengthens an organization’s cyber defense infrastructure.
Lastly, evaluating the software post-deployment is essential. Regularly reviewing its performance against predefined metrics ensures the organization consistently meets its objectives. Incorporating tools with built-in reporting modules simplifies this evaluation process. For those exploring related technologies, it might also be beneficial to compare electronic signature software to streamline document processing, enhance compliance, and ensure secure exchanges.
The Benefits of Law EnForcement Software
Meanwhile, the global law enforcement software market is growing and is expected to reach $22.1 billion by 2026 at a CAGR of 9.8%. Post-COVID-19, the law enforcement software market will grow as more agencies migrate their IT infrastructure to the cloud, boost departmental operations, and improve processes. While APAC technology spending has increased, the COVID-19 pandemic is imminent. (Research and Markets, 2022)
Both public safety groups and their communities gain from law enforcement software through the following.
Streamlining data collection and analysis: Securely store and manage big data. Share and analyze data to improve collaboration and decision-making. Data management streamlines law enforcement operations and investigations.
Creating a centralized database for investigative data: Law enforcement can utilize police database software to access evidence, family records, biometrics, and criminal history from a centralized database. Identifying data patterns and trends allows for more proactive staffing and resource allocation.
Using actionable insights: Incident mapping helps police track incident sites, detect crime patterns, and reduce recurrence. This feature improves reaction times and resource allocation by updating staff on crime scene locations.
How does law enforcement software enhance data privacy and security?
Law enforcement software enhances data privacy and security through a variety of measures designed to protect sensitive information. These include:
Data encryption: Advanced encryption ensures that all data, both in transit and at rest, is protected from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
Access control: Role-based access controls limit who can view or modify sensitive data, ensuring only authorized personnel can access confidential information.
Audit trails: Law enforcement software often includes features that track who accessed data, what changes were made, and when, providing transparency and accountability.
Compliance with regulations: The software is often designed to comply with laws such as the GDPR or CJIS (Criminal Justice Information Services) security policies, ensuring that data is handled in a legally compliant manner.
Two-factor authentication: To protect against unauthorized login attempts, many systems use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added security.
Secure cloud storage: Law enforcement agencies increasingly use cloud storage with robust security measures, including data redundancy and backup protocols, to ensure data is safe and accessible in emergencies.
These features work together to provide a secure environment for sensitive law enforcement data, reducing the risk of data breaches and maintaining public trust.
2025 List of the Best Law Enforcement Software
Depending on the goals and demands of an organization, the best law enforcement solutions may incorporate a range of functionalities, including evidence management, incident mapping, investigation management, case management, and dispatch management.
1. Adashi First Response
Adashi First Response helps agency staff respond to and manage critical incidents. It is designed for public safety, giving first responders adaptable technology for any incident. It brings ease and efficiency to daily workflows from the moment responders start their shift until a commander manages an incident.
Features
Dispatch integration
Incident notification
Automatic vehicle routing
Critical information dashboard
Multiple system integrations
Custom mapping layers
Two-way instant messaging
Dynamic interface
Locally-stored data
Reliable communication
Price
Request for quote
2. Presynct OnDemand
Presynct OnDemand lets police departments and security companies log activities, create reports, track incidents, and analyze data. It allows users to log and review security incidents using a form, while the NoteM8 mobile app can be utilized as police reporting software as it lets users log reports with photos, videos, and voice recordings.
Features
Mobile reporting
Daily activity log
Data input
Confidentiality marking
Audit trail
Proactive measures
Incident reporting
Dispatch
Case Management
Price
Starts at $39.00 per month
3. Kaseware Law Enforcement
Kaseware Law Enforcement is a law enforcement investigation software that provides innovative, optimized, and efficient law enforcement intelligence. Its case management and analytics platform help improve organization, mobility, and safety. This also functions as police management software to help streamline operations during investigations and other cases.
Features
Streamline operations
Obtain actionable intelligence
Police investigation management tools
Link analysis
Automatic graphing
Records management
Case management
Data security
Price
Request for quote
4. LEFTA SHIELD Suite
LEFTA SHIELD Suite is a one-stop solution for internal documentation. Ten apps for one price, one login, and one profile. Leverage an early warning system and statistics and learn how it can protect your agency from liability. It includes law enforcement software for mission-critical processes.
Software in Suite
Academy Training Software
Field Training Software
Managing Employee Training Records
Use of Force Software
Internal Affairs
Field Contact and Profiling Software
Vehicle Pursuit Reporting Software
Employee Conduct Tracking
Employee Vehicle Damage Documentation Software
Command Center
Some Features
Monitor data for liability issues and adjust training policies
Build community trust through transparency
Track employee use-of-force trends
Attach body camera, videos, and incident documents
Integrate CAD, PowerDMS, etc.
Prices
Subscription prices vary per agency size but start at $1,965.00 per year.
5. Omnigo
Omnigo manages safety, incidents, and security and is ideal for police, schools, and hospitals. It aids in investigations, reporting, CAD, and more and is available on-premise or cloud-based. Its incident management tools include detection, response, reporting, remediation tracking, and prevention. So, you can generate intelligence reports based on policies.
Features
Dispatch
Pre-planning & incident management
Records management
Safer communities
Evidence management
Public safety
Education
Healthcare
Gaming & hospitality
Corporate
Courts
Price
Starts at $115.00 per month
6. Magnet AXIOM
Magnet AXIOM is purpose-built to recover, process, and analyze digital evidence from various sources. Recover deleted data and investigate digital evidence from computer, mobile, cloud, and vehicle sources in one case file.
Features
Find key evidence quickly
Analyze your evidence in one case
Artifact-first approach
Investigate and categorize media efficiently
Maximize your existing lab infrastructure
Streamline your evidence workflow
Price
Offers free trial
Request for quote
7. Matrix Suite
Matrix Suite streamlines justice community information to automate smart workflow and quick legal processes while reducing office errors and waste. The Matrix Suite of applications and web solutions automates police case submission, prosecutor case processing, defense attorney discovery, and court filing.
LexisNexis Accurint Virtual Crime Center is a criminal investigation and analysis software that gives law enforcers actionable intelligence to drive informed decisions. It allows users to analyze crimes and respond fast and efficiently.
Features
Law enforcement experience
Special investigations unit
Industry-leading coverage
CJIS compliant sharing
Uncover non-obvious connections
Flexible 24-hour training
Near-real time updates
Custom delivery methods
Transparent pricing
Price
Request for quote
9. SAFE
SAFE helps law firms and police departments streamline evidence management, data visualization, and barcode scanning. It has an API for integrating with third-party apps. Users can retrieve database information just like in a dedicated law enforcement database software, as well as build customizable widgets, set case follow-up dates, view or edit legal records, and track hardware across locations. The mobile apps for Android and iOS allow for remote case tracking and evidence upload.
Features
Evidence management
Digital evidence
Asset tracking
Workflows & API
Dashboard
Stats & reporting
Price
Offers free trial
Price estimate at $4,300.00 per year
10. Virtual Case Management (VCM)
Virtual Case Management (VCM) is a legal management platform for private investigators, law firms, claims adjustors, and corporations that can also function as law enforcement case management software. It lets professionals access case information, assign tasks, and receive appointment reminders. It offers managers details in a centralized database.
Features
Private investigators & process servers
Legal industry
Law enforcement analysis
Claims adjusters
Computer information technology
Customized for your business
Price
Free trial available
The plans available are Bronze Plan ($24.99 per month), Silver Plan ($99.99 per month), Gold Plan ($199.99 per month), and Platinum Plan ($299.99 per month).
11. WebEOC
WebEOC helps local, state, and federal agencies prepare emergency plans and promote situational awareness. It includes a resource request module to deploy and track personnel, equipment, and documentation in compliance with NIMS regulations.
Features
Unrivaled flexibility
Collaboration promotes faster response
Built for any user, any skill level
Faster alerting with notifications
Emergency preparedness expertise
Easy board building with low code/no code editor
WebEOC mobile app
Real-time collaboration with Microsoft Teams & Slack
Price
Request for quote
12. digiTICKET
digiTICKET allows officers to create and submit tickets electronically with no need to spend time on the roadside, thus increasing officer, violator, and community safety. It eliminates illegible handwriting and error-prone data entry, transferring ticket data to court and records management systems.
Features
Improved officer safety
Automate the ticketing process
Scan driver’s license or pull driver or vehicle data from state switch
eFORCE is dedicated to making the community feel safer using a robust suite of browser-based law enforcement and mobile police software. It offers CAD, RMS, Mobile, Jail, Court, and Civil browser-based products. The software is ideal for sheriffs, police, dispatch centers, campus police, ISDs, jailers, and court officials.
Features
Computer-aided dispatch
Records management
Jail management
Mobile software & iOS app
Municipal court software
Automatic vehicle locator
Price
Price is quote-based.
14. Rave 911 Suite
Rave 911 Suite provides 911 teams, first responders, and emergency managers with the capabilities of handling, dispatching, and responding to emergencies efficiently and effectively. It includes Smart911, georeferenced floor plans, and text-from-911 features.
Features
Critical 911 caller info
Two-way communication
Enhanced location data
Access & functional needs registry
Situational awareness for first responders
Live video streaming & two-way texting
Secure and useful caller notes
Critical facility information
Accurate resident data on interactive maps
Price
Price is quote-based.
15. Spillman Records Management
Spillman Records Management allows an agency to have a centralized, single-source database for insights and the gathering of accurate data. The software empowers users with the most accurate and up-to-date information through its record management system.
Features
Enter and access data through a single-source database
Rhodium Incident Management Suite provides a complete command and control solution. Rhodium is intuitive and scalable for daily incidents to multi-agency responses. It is ideal for law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, and emergency management.
Features
Cloud-based
Security measures
Interface capabilities
Customizable
Incident/event pre-planning
Price
Request for quote
17. Pipl
Pipl is an identity management software that helps investigators and fraud analysts access current and historical information on individuals. Law enforcement, cybercrime, and insurance fraud management professionals can find email aliases, social media handles, phone numbers, education details, and job information.
Features
Global coverage
Discover real people behind email addresses
Uncover the identity behind a social-media account
Connect people to devices or vice-versa
Price
Offers free trial
Request a quote
18. OperationsCommander
OperationsCommander manages parking and security with one database. OPS-COM offers a user-managed portal and an administrative interface to customize the system. It manages parking permits, validation, and enforcement. OPS-COM offers in-field vehicle validation and traffic control with remote handhelds and LPR cameras.
Features
Parking enforcement simplified
Automated license plate recognition
Artificial intelligence under the hood
Enforcement with remote data access
Violation admin
Incident admin
Park admin
Price
Offers free trial
Request a quote
19. Valor IMS
Valor IMS is police computer software that functions as an incident management system. It provides computer-aided dispatch, mobile data modules, and records management in a unique cross-platform environment. It provides CAD, RMS, mobile, and citizen reporting applications that can work independently.
Features
Computer-aided dispatch
Records management system
Mobile support
SafeGuard
Universal alarm control
Price
Starts at a $59.00 flat rate per month
20. SmartDraw
SmartDraw is a diagram and chart tool that helps agencies manage diagramming processes with predefined templates. Document retention, customization, team collaboration, and single sign-on are key features (SSO).
Features
Generate organizational charts automatically
Organizational chart templates & examples
Intelligent org chart formatting
Free support
Better collaboration
Price
Offers free trial
Starts at $9.95 per month, billed annually for a single user
How Can Law Enforcement Software Streamline Administrative and Financial Workflows?
Law enforcement agencies increasingly seek solutions that extend beyond operational and investigative functionalities. Modern software now integrates modules to automate administrative tasks, ensuring streamlined financial processes, personnel management, and compliance with regulatory standards. By consolidating core administrative functions—including budgeting and human resources—these tools reduce manual errors and provide real-time insights into resource allocation. Integration with essential platforms such as payroll systems further enhances data accuracy, enabling agencies to oversee expenses and optimize staffing with greater precision.
Law Enforcement Software for Better Policing
Responsible law enforcement software companies prioritize data security in this age when the Internet of Things thrives. Cloud-based systems are more secure. Cloud solutions streamline evidence collection and simplify case management. Meanwhile, AI improves police work as it is used for facial recognition and image or video search. It spots patterns and outliers. Altogether, the best law enforcement software ensures that the police force can efficiently and effectively perform their duties while citizens rest assured of their safety and security.
Along with the best citizen request software tools, law enforcement software are solutions in the right direction for governments to connect, engage, and meet the ever-growing demands of their citizens for timely services.
Key Insights
Technological Innovations: The trends for 2022 indicate a surge in technological innovations in law enforcement, such as community-oriented policing, AI applications, biometrics, and drones.
Community-Oriented Policing Expansion: Significant funding ($139 million) is directed towards community-oriented policing to build trust between law enforcement and communities.
Increased Transparency: Law enforcement agencies are expected to make crime statistics more accessible and release bodycam footage proactively to enhance transparency.
Anti-Bias and Diversification Initiatives: There is a push for anti-bias education and diversification within the police force, emphasizing the recruitment of individuals from diverse backgrounds and skill sets.
Adoption of Biometric Access Control: Biometric access control is expected to grow, improving identity verification and criminal investigations.
Artificial Intelligence Utilization: AI is increasingly being used for service operations, public safety research, and data analysis, helping to manage the growing volumes of data.
Drones and Next-Generation Bodycams: The use of drones and next-gen bodycams in law enforcement is expanding, providing advanced capabilities for surveillance, search and rescue, and incident documentation.
FAQ
What is law enforcement software? Law enforcement software is a suite of digital tools designed to improve policing practices, streamline operations, manage data, and enhance public security and safety. It includes features for report writing, investigations, record management, evidence management, incident mapping, and more.
Why is law enforcement software important? It is important because it automates and streamlines various law enforcement processes, reduces human error, enhances efficiency, improves data management, and helps build community trust by making policing more transparent and effective.
What are the key trends in law enforcement technology for 2022? Key trends include community-oriented policing, increased transparency, anti-bias education, diversification of the police force, adoption of biometric access control, expanded use of artificial intelligence, and the deployment of drones and next-generation bodycams.
How does law enforcement software benefit police departments? Law enforcement software benefits police departments by streamlining data collection and analysis, creating centralized databases for investigative data, providing actionable insights through incident mapping, improving response times, and enhancing overall operational efficiency.
What is community-oriented policing and why is it significant? Community-oriented policing is a strategy that focuses on building ties and working closely with community members. It is significant because it helps build trust, improves cooperation between the police and the community, and addresses local concerns more effectively.
How does transparency impact law enforcement? Transparency in law enforcement builds public trust, ensures accountability, and improves community relations. It involves making crime statistics accessible and releasing bodycam footage proactively to show a commitment to openness and integrity.
What role does artificial intelligence play in law enforcement? AI plays a role in analyzing vast amounts of data, predicting crime patterns, improving decision-making, and automating tasks such as video analysis and gunshot detection. It helps law enforcement agencies manage data more effectively and respond to incidents more efficiently.
Why is biometric access control important for law enforcement? Biometric access control is important because it enhances security and identity verification processes. It helps in quickly and accurately identifying suspects, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring that law enforcement databases are secure.
How are drones being used in law enforcement? Drones are used in law enforcement for crime scene investigation, search and rescue operations, accident reconstruction, crowd monitoring, and surveillance. They provide high-resolution imagery and can access areas that may be dangerous or difficult for officers to reach.
What are next-generation bodycams and their benefits? Next-generation bodycams offer advanced features such as touchscreens, live playback controls, and the ability to be mounted on tripods. They provide a street-level view of police work, help in documenting incidents accurately, and improve transparency and accountability.
Research and Markets. (2022). Global Law Enforcement Software Market by Component, Solution (Digital Policing, Computer-Aided Dispatch, Jail Management), Service (Consulting, Training and Support, Implementation), Deployment Model (Cloud and On-premises), and Region—Forecast to 2026. https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5319536/global-law-enforcement-software-market-by
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology
ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics.
This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user
experience, functionality, and business value.
The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations,
and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic
view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics
are selected based on their direct impact on software
usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
General Features (40%)
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers.
It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of
the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use.
This is important because robust and well-designed
features determine the software’s overall utility
and efficiency in solving user problems.
Cost (15%)
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability.
It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s
features justify its price, considering different plans for small and
large organizations. This is vital for businesses to
ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
Customer Service (15%)
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer
support, including channels like chat, email,
or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and
ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime
and frustration for users.
Integrations (15%)
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools
(e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps).
Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and
enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems,
which is crucial for operational efficiency.
Mobile Support (15%)
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on
mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions.
With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile
support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize
the software effectively, regardless of location.