$700K Microsoft Investment in Mount Vernon Police Technology: WATCH

MOUNT VERNON, NY 2014 The City of Mount Vernon will collaborate with Microsoft to acquire and utilize key technology tools to increase public safety, Mayor Richard Thomas announced. He also criticized public officials who have not supported his proposals to support 21st century policing.

The mayor said is exercising his executive authority to execute Phase 1 of a technological transformation.

“My administration is committed to investments in public safety technology. Modern technology has made 21st century policing more efficient, more collaborative and given better results," Thomas said in an announcement. "The people of Mount Vernon deserve a police force that is equipped with the tools necessary to get the job done and, as Mayor, I will not rest until the department is fully supported.

"I am encouraged by Microsoft’s willingness to step forward and assist Mount Vernon with designing technology solutions to meet our needs. The cameras and applications are all designed with the community in mind. I am proud to have Microsoft as part of the team to bridge the gap on both sides of the badge.”

The initiative, dubbed Project “Bright Knight” after the Mount Vernon mascot Knights, will foster a unique partnership with the city and Microsoft.

"Microsoft is proud to work with Mayor Thomas and the City of Mount Vernon on their digital transformation for public safety that will help to drive a safer community," said Michael Donlan, Vice President, Public Sector at Microsoft Corporation.

Phase 1, immediate investments include:

• Developing and issuing a mobile community-based application allowing for users to report events and situations in real-time. (see Miami-Dade Community On Patrol app).
• Video Monitoring including $200,000 for cameras.
• $60,000 in smartphones for the entire police department. (see New York Police Department-issued new smartphone program)
• An investment in training and drone technology, including three drones at $20,000 and one drone at $80,000
• $300,000 in license plate readers.

TOTAL IMMEDIATE INVESTMENT: $700,000

The mayor said that since entering office, he has repeatedly requested funding for public safety which has been rejected. His political opponents made public comments following a rash of shootings including Shamoya McKenzie that they would support public safety investments and they have not done so to date, he said.