NC Highway Patrol implements new technology to help troopers find callers faster

ROBESON COUNTY, NC (WMBF) - New technology in North Carolina will now help troopers find drivers more easily -- even if they can’t tell a dispatcher exactly where they are.

North Carolina State Highway Patrol is rolling out a new, computer-aided dispatch system, allowing troopers to track 911 call locations and their colleagues out in the field.

The $11 million project began during the pandemic and is nearly complete, thanks to both money from the American Rescue Plan Act and existing North Carolina laws.

“It’s very important to progress with technology because technology makes things better. Obviously, with this program, it’s going to make troopers safer,” said NCSHP 1st Sgt. S.B. Lewis.

Lewis said he’s worked in law enforcement for 24 years, and communicating with other troopers to tell them where he is hasn’t always been easy.

“It was harder to get radios that would work everywhere you went,” said Lewis.

The new tracking systems now allow troopers to see each other’s locations -- which comes in handy when troopers are in rural areas. But, it can also help drivers, too. Lewis said just last week -- troopers relied on the new systems for a medical emergency.

“(The caller) had a stroke so they couldn’t talk, so emergency services could get to that person just by knowing where they’re at and then assess the situation,” said Lewis. “That might be the only way they can get any help based on the severity of their medical condition in that particular circumstance.”

It can help in all kinds of situations, though -- Lewis said many people drive through Robeson County, where his troop is located, who are not familiar with the area.

“If you’re the guy that’s broke down, and you’re from New York and you’re in Robeson County, the technology is just as important to you to get back on the road as it would be for somebody who may need some kind of emergency-- may have a legitimate emergency,” said Lewis.

This technology is still new for troopers, and they are still adjusting. But, Lewis said they always have a backup plan just in case.

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