SJPD to transition to encrypted radio traffic
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- In a press release sent out on Thursday, the St. Joseph Police Department announced it would transition to encrypted radio traffic early in July.
This change is for all law enforcement communications and is designed to protect the safety of both officers and the community, according to the press release.
The decision came after consideration of the evolving public safety landscape and the need to "maintain the integrity of law enforcement operations while ensuring compliance of all rules and best practices relating to criminal justice information systems."
The shift allows the department to respond to emergencies without the concern of private information being intercepted by unauthorized individuals.
"The safety of our officers and citizens we serve is our top priority," said SJPD Police Chief Paul Luster. "This move to encrypted radio traffic will help us protect sensitive operational details from being compromised, ensuring we can continue to serve our community effectively and safely."
In addition to improving officer safety, the transition to encrypted communications will safeguard the privacy of citizens.
According to the press release, "the information shared over law enforcement radio networks often includes sensitive details regarding ongoing investigations, emergency response situations, and personal data."
Sergeant Jeremy Peters said, "If somebody is having a mental health crisis and they're reluctant to call for help, the last thing that they want is for their name, their address, or any of their personal details to be shared over the radio. Knowing that it's probably going to be broadcast over social media there's some type of stigma that they're afraid of being attached to. And we don't want anybody to be discouraged from calling for help."
SJPD said, while this encryption does limit public access to real-time radio traffic, the department will continue to share information with the public through traditional channels, including: press releases, social media and regular community engagement efforts.
Sergeant Jeremy Peters stated, "Just know that we're out here, we're trying to do the best job that we can for the community. I would encourage people to come out and be apart of the neighborhood groups. If there isn't one that you're aware of, we can help get one founded. We also have message boards for people to communicate directly to the police department." Find out more by visiting the Saint Joseph Crime Prevention Page here.
The department said open lines of communication will be maintained to ensure the public remains informed during critical incidents.
"We understand the importance of keeping the public informed, and while we must protect the security of our law enforcement officers and operations, we are committed to ensuring that the community remains engaged and informed," said Chief Luster.
The press release also detailed, the SJPD is confident this change will contribute to a safer environment for both law enforcement officers and residents served.
