21st Century Crime Fighting Requires New Tactics and Advanced Technology

December 10, 2025

DeKalb County, Georgia is implementing a $18. 9 million crime-fighting initiative called Digital Shield as part of a six-year strategy to reduce both violent and non-violent crime through advanced technology. The program centers on establishing a Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC) at DeKalb Police Headquarters, utilizing Flock Safety cameras, drones, and other surveillance technologies that have proven successful in reducing crime by 20-50% in other cities like New York, Miami, and Atlanta.

Who is affected

Residents of DeKalb County communities including Dunwoody, Decatur, Stonecrest, Stone Mountain, and surrounding neighborhoods
DeKalb County Police Department officers and law enforcement personnel
The administration led by Lorraine Cochran-Johnson
Businesses and entertainment venues in DeKalb County
Law enforcement agencies in Brookhaven and Dunwoody (which already have RTCCs)

What action is being taken

DeKalb County is implementing the $18.9 million Digital Shield initiative featuring Flock Safety cameras, drones, and other technology tools
The administration is conducting interviews and assessments related to the DeKalb Police Department's recruitment and retention policies (ongoing since January 7)
Officials are implementing best practices to reduce crime
The county is working to identify effective strategies for enhancing recruitment and reducing officer resignations
Efforts are underway to improve officer recruitment, training, retention, and compensation

Why it matters

This initiative matters because crime remains a persistent and pressing reality throughout DeKalb County and the Atlanta metropolitan area, affecting residents' sense of safety and willingness to engage with their communities. Real-Time Crime Centers have demonstrated measurable success in other major cities, with New York experiencing decades-long crime decline, Miami seeing 66% higher clearance rates for violent crimes, and Atlanta achieving 20-50% crime reduction in camera-monitored areas. By combining proven surveillance technology with improved police department support systems, DeKalb County aims to build on its early positive results (34% reduction in homicides) and create a more secure environment that addresses both actual crime rates and public perception of safety.

What's next

Addition of an RTCC and accompanying technology at DeKalb Police Headquarters (planned but timing not specified)
Continued implementation of the 6-year Digital Shield strategy
Ongoing evaluation of existing policies for officer retention
Implementation of improvements to boost recruitment outcomes, increase retention rates, improve officer morale, and enhance support services for public safety personnel

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle