Law enforcement is trying to streamline its ability to enforce the laws of Washington State and crack down on crime. An example of this “streamlining” is the replacement of outdated radio systems. The Washington State Patrol says it can replace its radio system for at least $12 million less than expected under a plan that will sidestep the competitive bidding process.

The federal Department of Justice (“DOJ”) has invited the Washington State Patrol (“WSP”) to join its system rather than build its own. State patrol officials say a partnership with the federal government lowers the cost of a technology upgrade to $41 million; however, only Motorola’s equipment has the necessary features compatible with the DOJ radio system. It’s an overhaul aimed at complying with a Federal Communications Commission mandate to free up space on the radio spectrum for more users. If state and local agencies miss a federal deadline of Jan. 1, 2013, they face the risk of losing reception in nearly a third of the state.

The Legislature agreed to have the WSP move to a digital system that the WSP says will fully avoid losing coverage areas and even expand its system’s reach in some places. The new radios also are expected to make it easier for troopers to talk to other police agencies and firefighters; WSP troopers should find it easier to talk to federal law enforcement, and many large Puget Sound area police agencies — including King and Snohomish counties and the city of Seattle. Troopers also could talk to agencies that use different equipment, but might not be able to use all of the system’s features; for example, being able to pinpoint a GPS location.

Washington law enforcement is looking for enhanced ways to crack down on criminal activity. If you or a loved one is arrested, cited or charged with a crime in Western Washington it is imperative that a Seattle criminal attorney be retained as soon as possible to ensure all personal, professional and financial interests are protected to the greatest extent possible. Seattle criminal defense lawyers Greg Schwesinger and Saad Qadri of SQ Attorneys represent those individuals criminally charged through all phases of their Washington State criminal case. The Seattle criminal attorneys of SQ Attorneys are experienced and proven negotiators and litigators that make a world of difference for those accused of committing a crime. SQ Attorneys is a team of seasoned Seattle criminal lawyers that work tireless to achieve the best possible outcome for each and every client they have the honor of representing. Arrested for committing a crime in Western Washington? Call The Criminal Defense Team of SQ Attorneys at (206) 441-0900 or (425) 998-8384 for an initial free consultation.