Dubuque Police opening new Precision Policing Center

The Dubuque Police Department will use a new Precision Policing Center (PPC) to analyze real-time data from the city’s approximately 1,300 surveillance cameras. Five civilians will staff the center, giving officers in the field the latest information. According to Police Chief Jeremy Jensen, the PPC is a “force multiplier,” helping the department maximize its force as the Dubuque Police are 20 sworn officers shy of being fully staffed. Police will also use data collected by the city’s 22 Automated License Plate Readers placed along major highways. The goal is to have the center up and running by January 1st. To fully staff the PPC, the Dubuque Police Department is hiring three technicians, one crime analyst, and one criminal computer forensics position. Five sworn police positions that are currently vacant are being eliminated to accommodate for the PPC roles. A computer laboratory in the Dubuque Law Enforcement Center is being remodeled for the PPC.