The new software program is an all-in-one system, which means each of the department’s divisions can work more efficiently. The upgrade includes a streamlined report-writing module, portals for the courts and other county offices to view information, and an evidence system component, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
“We continue to make great strides and are focused on becoming the best version of our Sheriff’s Office as we move into the future,” Sutter County Sheriff Brandon Barnes said. “I am glad we were able to bring this program to our staff, and the community, while being fiscally responsible at the same time.”
The company that managed the old system merged with several other companies and allowed the Sheriff’s Office to save money on licensing fees and customer discounts, making the move more affordable. The entire cost after equipment purchases and transferring of data was just under $500,000.
“It was a change we needed to make many years ago,” said Capt. Chad Niswonger.
Having a “view only” portal in the new software for county offices to access reports and information is expected to reduce calls to dispatch and the sheriff’s office records unit. The public will be able to look up statistics on the department’s website, which come directly from the new system. There will be an integrated community platform link that will allow the public to look up types of calls and crimes in their neighborhoods.
The biggest obstacle for the sheriff’s office has been ensuring the successful transition of data from the old system to the new system. Another challenge has been familiarizing employees with a new system.
County IT staff have been working for more than a year to ensure a smooth transition, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
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