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An expanded Web version of segments seen on CNN Getting arrest warrants via computer
Experimental plan designed to save police time, cut paperwork
March 5, 1998
Web posted at: 10:02 a.m. EST (1502 GMT)From Reporter Alesia Stanford
LAWRENCEVILLE, Georgia (CNN) -- An experimental plan to increase police efficiency allows officers to request a search or arrest warrant from a judge via computer, rather than going to a courthouse.
Police in Gwinnett County, Georgia, in suburban Atlanta, say they're first in the nation to try out the system, created in cooperation with Federal Data Systems Inc. and known as electronic warrant interchange.
Electronic warrant forms 638 K / 17 sec. / 160x120
QuickTime movieIt saves time and paperwork because vital information needs to be entered into the computer only once, explains Gwinnett County Magistrate Joseph Iannazzone.(
128K/11 sec. AIFF or WAV sound)
CNN's Alesia Stanford reports
2 min. 15 sec. VXtreme video
As officers undergo training -- for some, their first time on a computer -- they are told all they have to do is fill in the blanks on a form requesting a warrant.
For example, if a suspect is charged with battery, the state code for that particular crime comes up on the screen, and the officer can fill in the specific violations.
Electronic warrants will allow officers to cut down on paperwork The computer screen can also show a suspect's picture and background information.
Once the form is completed, tiny cameras attached to computers at the police station and the courthouse allow the officer and judge to see each other and discuss the warrant request.
It's "exotic technology" turned into practical use, says Iannazzone.(
If there's sufficient evidence, the judge and officer will sign the warrants via an electronic signature pad.
A new state law in Georgia recognizes electronic signatures as legal.
Gwinnett County's online warrant system will be put into operation as soon as the first round of training is completed. If the program is successful, other law enforcement agencies across the state can adopt the software and integrate it into their current computer technology.
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