Real-time Analysis and Critical Response (RACR) refers to a Division at LAPD that was established in 2005 to create and maintain a high-tech “war room” that would function as a Fusion Center or local hub for integration and processing of surveillance, data collection, and Predictive Policing.
In its early years RACR also housed technology called CopLink, a $1.3M computer program that would allow the LAPD to link four of its databases, with the purpose of speeding up police search queries in these systems. CopLink was also used by LASD (LA County Sheriff’s Department) and other regional police agencies.
RACR houses LAPD’s data collection framework and its tools, including live access to surveillance cameras, Facial recognition software, Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPRs), and Social media surveillance. RACR also has a wall-mounted digital map that marks the location of crime reports to create real-time Crime Mapping (Esri GIS) for the purpose of Predictive Policing.
Image description: A monitor taking up most of a wall displays a digital map of real-time crimes reported around Los Angeles, displayed at LAPD’s RACR Division headquarters located in the City of Los Angeles Emergency Operation Center (EOC). Image source: revealnews.org