What is a Real Time Information Center and what are the benefits of having one?

The Real Time Information Center (RTIC) is a way to greatly enhance the Knoxville Police Department’s investigative and information-gathering capabilities. 

The RTIC will be integrated with 9-1-1 dispatch, giving RTIC staff the ability to relay critical, time-sensitive information to officers who are responding to a scene, including possible suspect information. 

Additionally, and most importantly, the RTIC will be another investigative tool to help investigators generate leads and close cases after crimes occur. 

The Real Time Information Center will also provide additional infrastructure and resources for the KPD and other public safety and service entities in the event of natural disasters and major, critical events. 

By their very existence, RTIC cameras also act as a natural deterrent in areas where those cameras are placed.  

Will there be opportunities for the public to see how the RTIC works?

Yes, the Real Time Information Center will be housed at the new Public Safety Complex and the KPD will provide tours of the RTIC as well as informational presentations to community groups and members. The RTIC belongs to the community in the same way that it does to the KPD. 

What nearby cities have Real Time Crime Centers or something similar?

The Chattanooga Police Department has had a Real Time Intelligence Center in operation since 2017. At the end of 2021, CPD had 53 cameras dispersed throughout the city in an effort to deter and solve crimes and improve community safety. The Memphis Police Department also has a Real-Time Crime Center that has access to over 3,000 cameras across the city.  

How many cameras will there be in Knoxville, as part of the Real Time Information Center?

We hope to have 15, or more, City cameras up and running at the initial startup of the RTIC. Capacity will be expanded over time, based on the availability of funds and grant opportunities. 

How will camera placement be determined?

Camera placement will be based on a combination of the following: an analysis of historical and contemporary crime data, community input, insight from officers based on their experiences and observations within their beats, and vendor consultation regarding the best practices. 

Once a camera is installed - is it permanent?

No, Real Time Information Center cameras can be moved. 

Will the RTIC have the ability to tap into my personal security camera without my consent?

No, the Real Time Information Center will only have access to cameras purchased for RTIC purposes as well as other publicly-owned cameras.. Business owners or individuals can grant access to their cameras for RTIC use, but the KPD would have to enter into a signed contractual agreement before acquiring access. Additionally – the RTIC will only be able to access cameras if the camera model has the ability to be integrated with the software. 

Will KPD body cams or cruiser cams be linked to the RTIC?

The KPD does not currently have the ability to tap into KPD officer body-worn cameras or in-car cameras in real time.

Will these cameras be used to zoom into my windows, car, or home?

No, RTIC cameras will only be used as an investigative tool after a crime occurs or for the purposes of gathering real-time information for officers who are responding to the scene of a call for service or critical, on-going incident.  

The Knoxville Police Department is developing a robust policy for the Real-Time Information Center, which will explicitly outline appropriate uses of the technology. That policy will be made publicly available once complete. 

When will the RTIC be up and running in Knoxville?

Right now, the RTIC is just in the construction phase which is anticipated to be complete by fall of 2023.  The KPD hopes to have the RTIC up and fully functional by Summer 2024.

---