County 911 Communications Center has Started Expansion to Connect with National Database

has taken a step toward keeping the residents of Barrow County safer.

Chief Dennis Merrifield said the county's 911 Communication Center began the process Monday of expanding its ability to obtain information from the National Crime Information Center.

“When the process is complete it will result in a much more efficient system for the law enforcement officers in Barrow County," Merrified said in a news release, which indicates the current system law enforcement officers use has limited capability and requires communication officers with Barrow County Emergency Services to enter the information relayed to them over the radio. With the expansion, officers in the field will be able to enter the information directly and see firsthand the information that is being transmitted back form the National Crime Information Center, a computerized index of criminal justice information, such as criminal record histories, fugitives and missing persons all available to federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. 

“On September 11, 2001, America was attacked and many first responders stepped up and gave their lives so that others could survive. As a way to honor their memories, it is fitting that this project starts on the eleventh anniversary of 9/11,” Merrifield said in the release. “This is a great example of how departments at all levels in Barrow County are cooperating with each other in an effort to keep our citizens safe. May we always remember the sacrifices of so many, and work together to better protect our citizens." 

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