West Yorkshire Police Commissioner focuses on technology collaboration
It follows a recent report by Her Majesties Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) highlighting West Yorkshire as having some of the best practice in the country.
The 'Policing in Austerity: Rising to the Challenge' document recognised improving technology and joint working by the Force.
Targeted preventative activity and police led prosecutions were also underlined as examples of innovative work on a national level.
The West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson (right) said: "I am committed to giving the people of West Yorkshire the best possible policing service and the use of technology is one of the ways we can achieve this in spite of severe Government cuts.
"The HMIC report notes West Yorkshire's collaborative approach with other Forces across the country in the development and use of crime recording systems. We also have a well-established regional collaboration with other forces and PCC's within Yorkshire and Humber which can be further developed.
"The need for shared innovation between public bodies is more relevant than ever before and is an area in which I place my full support and am always seeking new opportunities.
"At the beginning of the year, I gave my personal backing to the Athena Project in West Yorkshire.
"This aims to develop technical 'apps' for smart phones and mobile digital media devices which will capture real-time information from the public during crisis situations.
"This again demonstrates mine and West Yorkshire Police's continued commitment to investment in technology and shows how we are leading the way in ground-breaking research.
"As we move forward, I will be looking for further partnership opportunities that will present value for money to our communities, keeping them safe as well as feeling safe."