What does a safer future look like for our communities? For leaders across public safety, it’s not a matter of science fiction—it’s a matter of strategy, innovation, and equitable technology. In a wide-ranging conversation, several law enforcement leaders shared their perspectives on how technology is transforming safety and what it means for the future of policing.
Breaking the Tunnel Vision: Empowering Patrol with Smarter Tools
Lieutenant Wilson of Mustang PD in Oklahoma, a technology-forward officer with deep experience in CAD, integrations, and API connectivity, emphasized the power of equipping patrol officers with tools that enhance situational awareness.
“If you’re just one resource on patrol, it’s easy to miss what’s happening around you,” he said. “Technology gives us flexibility. Not just to respond, but to see the bigger picture.”
By decentralizing access to investigative tools and real-time data, Lt. Wilson believes patrol units can begin identifying new ways to use technology, expanding the department’s overall toolkit and making every officer a more proactive and informed presence in the field.
Rethinking Manpower: Tech as a Force Multiplier
Senior Crime and Intel Analyst David Sparks of Albany PD in Georgia reflected on the evolving expectations around manpower and how technology helps balance the load.
“It’s a struggle to get that manpower. A safe city of the future is one where technology can alleviate that demand,” Sparks said.
He acknowledged that while no amount of tech can replace the human element, it can get officers to the scene faster, equip them with essential background information, and allow them to make better-informed decisions. Ultimately, the officer remains the linchpin of community safety, but now with digital force multipliers by their side.
Drones, Firefighters, and Real-Time Decision-Making
Chief Deering of Spring Arbor Township PD in Michigan painted a vivid picture of future-ready emergency response—one where firefighters are informed by live drone footage before they arrive on scene.
“Imagine a firefighter in a truck, already knowing the wind direction of a blaze before getting there,” he said. “That’s the vision: drones and live views that protect responders and the public.”
This anticipatory intelligence, Chief Deering suggested, is where public safety is headed. By feeding real-time situational data to responders en route, agencies can reduce risk, improve outcomes, and optimize tactical response.
Accountability and Justice, Enhanced by Evidence
Commander Greathouse of Lexington PD in Kentucky and Chief Scesney of Grand Prairie PD in Texas spoke to a critical shift in public safety: greater accountability and the changing burden of proof.
“Twenty-five years ago, my word was enough. Now, society demands video evidence, and maybe that’s a good thing,” Commander Greathouse noted.
He emphasized the value of tools like Flock Safety cameras and digital records in holding offenders accountable while also protecting victims and witnesses from retraumatization.
Chief Scesney agreed, highlighting how technology not only supports courtroom convictions but also reduces the need for victims to relive traumatic experiences.
“Now we can use technology to verify evidence without always needing testimony,” Chief Scesney said. “That helps us move forward without putting more emotional strain on victims.”
The Future: Where Crime Isn’t Worth It
The common thread among these leaders was a hope that technology will eventually change the cost-benefit analysis for offenders.
“I’m hopeful we get to a point where criminals don’t think crime is worth it,” Chief Scesney said.
Through strategic integration of real-time video, drones, patrol enhancements, and data-sharing platforms, these public safety leaders are designing systems where crime has fewer hiding places—and communities have more peace of mind.
Safer by Design
The city of the future won’t just be smarter; it’ll be safer by design. That future is being built today by agencies investing in technology not as a replacement for officers, but as a partner in the mission to protect and serve. As these leaders show, the blend of innovation, accountability, and human insight is shaping a new era in public safety. One where intelligence, not idealism, is the key to impact.
Connect with Forward-Thinking Public Safety Leaders at Flock Forward
If these insights sparked ideas or inspiration, don’t miss the opportunity to connect directly with the minds behind them. Flock Forward 2025 is the premier event for law enforcement leaders who are shaping the future of public safety.
Join peers from across the country to share stories, explore real-world results, and see how technology is transforming policing—from the street to the command center. Whether you’re looking to swap ideas, dive into new strategies, or build lasting partnerships, Flock Forward is where innovation meets community. Let’s build the future of safety—together.
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