The city of New Orleans is working with Mission Critical Partners (MCP) to overhaul New Orleans’ “critically antiquated” justice technology systems, and that will replace decades-old computer systems with cloud-based technologies.
“New Orleans cannot afford the human and financial toll caused by outdated technology in our justice system,” said Chief Administrative Officer Gilbert Montaño. “Given the herculean task this project presents, it was critical that we identify a partner with a proven track record. We could not have hoped for a better partner than Mission Critical Partners, having completed more than 3,000 projects for more than 1,300 clients since 2009.”
Funding for the project comes from the $30 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Justice Tech Modernization Program authorized by Mayor LaToya Cantrell and the New Orleans City Council in December 2022.
“After fighting tirelessly for a direct allocation of ARPA dollars, we heard directly from residents that they wanted part of this funding to go towards supporting and improving public safety, and this partnership with MCP is a perfect example,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell.
“The ability to quickly obtain and disseminate information is a crucial tool for fighting crime, and recent advancements in technology have enabled multiple law enforcement agencies to accomplish this effectively,” the mayor said. “As a world-class police department, it is critical that we equip NOPD with every tool in the toolbox not only to keep our people safe and protected but to also ensure we sustain our 21st-century police force.”
The city said the planned justice tech upgrades will “reduce cumbersome, repetitive data entry and paperwork, freeing professionals to pursue their true missions: public safety and public justice.” In a press release, the city highlighted the practical benefits of the overhaul, including:
- Officers will spend less time filing jail paperwork, searching for records, and waiting to testify in court;
- Sheriff’s deputies will have up-to-the-minute information on the status of charges and required court appearances for individuals in their custody;
- Legal cases will proceed more quickly with fewer mistakes;
- Fewer court hearings will be rescheduled, relieving victims and witnesses from repeat trips to the courthouse in pursuit of justice; and
- Transparency and accountability will be enshrined in each of the technological processes.
“This investment in our Criminal Justice System reflects our commitment to public safety and our respect for the men and women who do this work every single day,” said Office of Criminal Justice Coordination Commissioner Tenisha Stevens. “From our officers behind the badge to the men and women in the courthouse, this initiative will drastically improve the work lives of our most important asset — our people.”
