Pittenger, Cathey Host 911 Technology Demonstration

Press Release

CHARLOTTE -- This fall, Union County will become the first in America to launch innovative new 911 technology allowing citizens to send pictures or video of criminal activity directly to 911 dispatchers via their mobile phones. The technology will give police officers nearly instant access to pictures or videos of suspects, suspicious vehicles, or even kidnapping victims.

"We are very proud to announce the technology of the future is available right now in Union County," said Union County Emergency Communications Director Larry Brinker. "Emergency texting, photo uploads, and video transfers from nearly any phone can be distributed immediately to field units."

Congressman Robert Pittenger (NC-09) and Union County Sheriff Eddie Cathey will host a statewide briefing and demonstration of the new technology on Monday, December 2nd, 10:30 a.m., at the Union County Government Center in Monroe. Media is invited to cover the event.

"Union County has turned the smart phone in your pocket into a crime fighting tool, and has launched this new technology at no cost to taxpayers," commented Congressman Pittenger. "As a public service, I'm hosting this briefing so more law enforcement agencies can learn from Union County's forward-thinking experience."

State Senator Tommy Tucker, Representatives Craig Horn and Mark Brody, senior management from North Carolina Emergency Management, and representatives of various 911 systems from across North Carolina plan to attend the demonstration.

"This is something that will benefit every citizen, as well as every public service agency," said Union County Sheriff Eddie Cathey.

"NexGen represents nearly real-time intelligence and reporting capability," said Union County Chief Deputy Ben Bailey. "This service will enable us to be more effective in the field as a result of the rapid exchange of information."

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