With the aim of increasing transparency, the San Mateo Police Department announced Thursday it has launched online resources providing policing data, traffic collision information, an existing crime map and the ability for users to request public records, obtain a police report and access department policies.
The new “data transparency web page” is here.
The new “police accountability web page” is here.
The policing data page displays data on citizen initiated calls, officer initiated calls, police reports, internal investigations, officer-involved shootings, assaults on officers, use of force, arrests and workforce diversity, according to SMPD.
The traffic collision data webpage displays data collisions involving injury, hit-and-run, DUI and private-property, along with the Safe Streets San Mateo Campaign and, coming soon, citation information.
The crime mapping webpage displays data on calls for service, crime reports and missing persons.
SMPD said the new portal aims “to ensure public information is accessible for review and use by members of the public.”
“Access to public records is an important priority for us, as we believe that public trust is essential to good community policing strategies and maintaining accountability,” the department said. “Providing information online about the way we work and the policies that govern us is just one of San Mateo Police Department’s transparency initiatives. The ability to readily access public information encourages inclusion, keeps residents better informed about police department operations, crime trends, and encourages them to help us keep their community safe.”
Photo credit: San Mateo Police Department
