Patent Application
20240087354
The present invention relates to improving interactions between police officers and civilians and more particularly to a system and method for increasing safety during law enforcement stops.
Routine traffic stops are among the most dangerous police duties, according to reports in 2015, seven police offers were killed during traffic stops, which was the leading felonious cause of death among officers in 2015. Likewise, over 100 civilians were killed by police after a traffic stop in 2015. The combination of tense officers and anxious drivers means that traffic stops are often one miscalculation away from disaster. The 1st words from a Police Officers mouth when pulled over are: “License, Registration and Proof Insurance . . . ” He's already ran the license plates after pulling the vehicle over . . . waiting for the results from his dispatch. This can be problematic for both officers and drivers in terms of safety. Consequently, a non-physical system and method to make routine traffic stops safer for police officers and drivers is disclosed.
The following presents a simplified summary of some embodiments of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some embodiments of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
In one aspect of the invention, a system for increasing safety during a traffic stops is provided, comprising a user application configured to be accessible by a smartphone, the user application providing an authorization process to utilize the user application; a law enforcement application providing police officers the ability to communicate to the user application; a breathalyzer device in communication with the law enforcement application directly or via the user application; and, wherein the combination of the user application and the law enforcement application enables a routine traffic stop to occur with no physical interaction between a law officer having the law enforcement application and a driver having the user application.
In one embodiment, the law enforcement application is configured to pair with the user application when the driver having the user application is within a predetermined proximity. In another embodiment, the predetermined proximity is 30-50 yards. In one embodiment, the police officer may issue citations via the user application from the law enforcement application. In yet another embodiment, the user may pay a ticket or citation via the user application. In one embodiment, during the routine traffic stop, the user application is configured require a two-step authentication process comprises a request for a unique password via the user application, and requiring a selfie photo taken of the driver to verify identity. In one embodiment, access to the user application and the law enforcement application is only possible within the predetermined proximity, otherwise communication access to the user application and the law enforcement application is denied. In one embodiment, the breathalyzer device is configured to test and determine the driver's breath alcohol content and send the results directly or indirectly to the law enforcement application. In another embodiment, the breathalyzer device testing is only enabled if the law officer deems it necessary. In yet another embodiment, the breathalyzer device testing is recorded or monitored via the user application to prevent fraudulent testing results.
The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and important features of the present disclosure so that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood and so that the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated. Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the disclosed specific methods and structures may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
The following description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor for carrying out their invention. Various modifications, however, will remain readily apparent to those skilled in the art, since the general principles of the present invention have been defined herein to specifically provide a system and method for increasing safety during traffic stops.
It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as to mean “at least one.” The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “providing” is defined herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical existence, making available, and/or supplying to someone or something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period of time. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.
In one embodiment, an improvement in routine traffic stops by making it safer for police officers and drivers is provided. Implementation of smart technology into the industry wide standard use of physical interactions between police officers and drivers, a streamlined method and process will yield optimal results as a safer method and system in executing such a tactic. Utilizing technology, i.e. algorithms and databases, servers, and cloud-based infrastructures with application processing interfaces (API's) communicating in this ecosystem, creating a synergy while transferring specific data; will replace the current process of a routine traffic stop.
It is a particular advantage of the present invention to eliminate the physical interaction during a routine traffic stop. After a routine traffic stop is made, when the patrol officer and driver are in the predetermined range computing devices 106 and 108 may be paired. The parring technology may be any available wireless technology, not limited to Bluetooth. At the time of this disclosure, the preferred wireless technology is Bluetooth v5, however it is understood that as technology advances the system and method disclosed herein may utilize any advanced technologies without departing form the scope or spirit of the invention.
As previously mentioned, pairing two computer applications one web and the other a mobile device; will work in concert to transfer specific data points to identify a driver instantly from a distance. Eliminating the physical interaction during a routine traffic stop. The patrol officer's computing system 106 can only communicate and pair with the driver's mobile device only when it's within the pairing range; which is between 20-30 yards radius of the driver's vehicle. At this range and only this range, the communication between devices are connected. An alert is sent directly to the driver's computing device via mobile app informing that a patrol officer's system has detected a potential traffic infraction. The drivers' API displays “Please Pull Over to Safe Place and enter your Password” on the driver's computing device. The driver pulls over, and enters a password. Now the devices are paired and the app is fully activated.
Still referring to
In some embodiments, the mobile computing device 108 includes a featured to record or display in real-time when the breathalyzer test is being administered. This helps ensure the test is valid, and removes the stigmas of a possible fraudulent test or transaction. In this embodiment, the breathalyzer device 112 is also in communication with the mobile computer device 108, via short range technologies, such as Bluetooth. In some embodiments, the mobile computer device 108 transfers or communicates the testing results with the patrol officer's computing system 106, rather than the breathalyzer device directly. After the breathalyzer test, if the results have been determined to be above the legal limit, then the police officer 107 can enforce the penalty for the infraction (DUI/DWI). In some embodiments, the driver 109 may attempt to dispute the claim, such that the driver is subjected to typical testing or procedures known in the art, such that the breathalyzer results may be validated.
Next, the driver has the option to agree (sign) or dispute the infraction using the user interface on their mobile computing device via the app. If the driver agrees, they have the option to pay the ticket immediately on their mobile computing device via the app, or pay on a later date. As well known in the art, the driver may dispute the infraction in the court of law. This concludes the traffic stop. The information and details of the stop are preserved and stored in data repositories 302, 304, 310, and 311. Data repository 302 includes both the hard drive of the mobile computing device as well as a secure database in the cloud in which the driver has access to a digital receipt of the infraction. Similarly, the interaction and details are stored on data repository 304 of the patrol officer and data repository 310 of the law enforcement system. Similarly, a copy of the interaction and details are stored in secured data storage 311 via the system. This data is available to the patrol officer's command staff 312 and the Justice Department 313.
The core embodiment of this invention consists of two versions; Driver Mode and Pedestrian Mode with a web version for Patrol Cars; complemented with a mobile version for Drivers and Pedestrians, supported by servers, data and cloud-based services to track and record instances when traffic infractions are perpetrated. The functionality of the app is for the sole purpose of identifying a driver from a distance. When downloaded on the Police Officer's computer system, the application has zero access to Law Enforcement servers, or data. It's completely independent from their system, but works in concert with their existing system to identify and verify the driver, issuance of tickets via the app and application API, and have a hard copy mailed to the address that's indicated on the driver's license. An intuitive interface also integrates the option to pay and process a ticket on-the-spot.
When paired with the mobile version, the two devices communicate specific data points complied from the DMV and dynamic person profile ID verification and routine traffic infractions processing purposes only. Routine traffic stops include but are not limited to speeding, blocking intersections, erratic driving, expired tags, seat belt, distracted driving, and broken taillights. To preserve the integrity of this method and system, it's intended for routine traffic stops; at this stage it's not intended for criminal purposes. This method applies to law abiding citizens that encounter traffic infractions.
The functionality will expose an officer if the power is abused by creating a data blue print of every interaction when the app is connected, accessed, and activated. In one embodiment, each download is supported with officer's name, badge number, and patrol unit number. Likewise, each download is time stamped. As previously mentioned, the Command Staffs and Justice Department will also have access to this sensitive data.
The mobile version downloaded from the driver must be in compliance with the requirements prior to downloading the app. In one embodiment, if a driver has a suspended license, they are not accepted into the system. The API will read “unable to complete the download”. The inventive feature of this system, method, and app is eliminating the need for a Police Officer to have to exit his vehicle during a routine traffic stop. The purpose of the app is to identify a driver instantly from a distance between vehicles of 20-30 yard radius in order for this method and system to be properly executed. It's one of the requirements of being pre-vetted at the sign up stage after downloading. Creating a profile, including inputting a valid driver's license number and proof of insurance via the app.
For security purposes, a valid driver's license number will identify and reveal the complete DMV profile of the driver to the Police Officer when the devices are in pairing mode after a password has been entered that was created during the initial process. A two-step authentication process is required for a.) devices to connect during a routine traffic stop when the vehicles are within the said range indicated above; and b.) the systems are activated after a password has been entered, which then starts the ID verification process, which will show that the driver's license and proof of insurance are valid.
The improved method and system, eliminates having to exit a vehicle to obtain these documents and the entire process has been streamed lined and therefore, all included into the app. The app is totally independent of accessing any information from the drivers' device i.e. during the pairing process, while the Police Officer's system does not have any access to trace calls, see texts, or monitor that driver's computing device, and encryption technology will be implemented into the application to prevent any unauthorized access. It is a particular advantage of the present invention, that when pairing devices, there's a predetermined time limited allowed after the exchange of profiles are successful, which prevents profiling and unethical practices. The drivers' user interface captures the Police Officer's name and badge number during every interaction, and is stored on secure dedicated servers, also captured and time stamped are: location, time of day/night, recorded speed at the time of stop. The purpose of creating data profiles of Driver and Police Officer to access at later dates, if needed. Accountability and transparency is paramount. This keeps both parties honest. The implementation of a pre-vetted process, streamlines the verification of the Driver.
In one embodiment, the method and system can be applied to motorcyclists as well. Later model vehicles and motorcycles can be notified via an API integration between dashboard interfaces, and mobile devices. Multiple branches of Police Officers will benefit from the method and system in identifying drivers' implementing this system, Highway Patrol and State Troopers, each municipality will have the ability to utilize this technology on a wide spectrum, saving time by processing routine traffic infractions digitally.
In many cases, in inner cities, individuals tend to take public transportation to get around, and having to walk the remainder to the way to arrive to a destination, and this results in some unfortunate situations. To solve this problem, one could apply this same method for non-drivers' by implementing the same requirements of being “pre-vetted” during the registration process. With no outstanding warrants, parolee, felons and registered sex offenders will NOT be allowed to download the software, due to the fact that they have search and seizure clauses attached to their profiles. This informs the Police Officer that there's no need to approach the individual. This effort alone will result in better Policing in communities in “high crime” areas. The end result in implementing this method exposes the real criminals without the guess work, due to the fact that they're denied access to download the software, because they simply don't qualify, based on the requirements. This method can expose the criminals, while police officers can now actually target (real criminals), rather than harass law abiding citizens.
Referring to
As previously mentioned, the pedestrian mode is similar to the traffic stop version of the present invention discussed herein. The difference being that the Pedestrian version is utilized for non-driving instances. In situations accessing all forms public transportation i.e., Light Rail, Planes, Cruise lines, Airports, etc. In some embodiments, the method and system also is configured to eliminate the use of Fake ID's.
Facial Recognition in the application software 100 determines the positive identification of an individual during the process of determining who this person in question is during the law enforcement stop. The identification process adheres to the purposes of privacy the Facial recognition and after the stop or encounter, it is deleted and this information is never stored in any data repository. The sensitivity of this technology (FR) is not abused and/or exploited any form our technology simply deletes this aspect after every interaction instantly and automatically.
Advantageously, this technology assists in situations when Law Enforcement encounters an individual in highly suspected scenario and the individual is experiencing erratic behavior, rather than assume the worst. Law Enforcement now can be provided the tools to rigorously evaluate and de-escalate the situation utilizing the technology.
Mental illness is a major issue and rightly so, the misconceptions and the ability to recognize and detect it in Law Enforcement can be the determining factor of life or death situations. Being equip with the proper tools can help mitigate the risks involved with the proper approach. Applying real time facial recognition can determine the mental state of individuals not as a clinical conclusion, but yet an alert to Law Enforcement to notify qualified mental health staff on the scene which helps dramatically in the de-escalation of potential volatile situation. In one embodiment, the application software 100 will be connected to mental health services databases for the sole purpose of logging data on such individuals per future use.
Referring to
In an alternate embodiment of the present invention, the method and system can be utilized to streamline the rental car ID verification process. Renting a car can be a time consuming and frustrating event, often comprising long lines with tired travelers. Referring now to
In some embodiments, multiple devices having the software downloaded may be present during a single interaction. Thus, to differentiate and navigate between devices say for instance, during a routine traffic stop and there are multiple passengers in a vehicle, it's a matter of entering a password to initiate device pairing and transferring of data profiles, between the Police Officer and the actual Driver. In some embodiments, during non-driving situations, if multiple devices are recognized on public transportation in pedestrian mode, the same method and process applies per verification and identifications purposes.
Issuance of tickets, in this instance, all the requirements are predetermined and validated in advance; it's imperative that all drivers and pedestrians keep their profiles and information up-to-date and current, the mobile app will alert them if there are any changes on their profile pertaining to driving privileges, infractions, or proof of insurance status etc.
It is a particular advantage of the present invention that tickets can be processed via the application and the hard copy is mailed directly to the address associated with your DMV profile.
The complete process is executed from distance between the officer and driver in less than 15 minutes at distance of 20-30 yards and the entire process has a digital blue print of the traffic stop, the officers profile, and the number of times he has pulled over a driver for traffic violations, which is all recorded and stored on secure servers for future references. The driver will have the option of paying and processing a ticket on-the-spot, via the app, or the option to pay at a designated later date. If the driver disputes an infraction, they can rectify the issue in court.
Implementing this method and system of 2P′ Century Law Enforcement will ensure accountability and transparency along with safety for Law Enforcement and Communities.
The following are method steps to utilize the invention according to some embodiments of the present invention:
A. Software Integration with Law Enforcement:
The implementation of this system, particularly in the context of routine traffic stops and pedestrian interactions, must be conducted with strict adherence to legal standards and ethical principles. Privacy concerns are paramount, as the system involves the exchange of personal and sensitive information. All data must be encrypted and stored securely, with access restricted to authorized personnel. The use of technologies such as facial recognition and breathalyzer integration must comply with relevant laws and regulations, and individuals must be informed of their rights and the purpose of data collection. Ethical considerations also extend to the prevention of profiling, discrimination, or abuse of power. Transparency in the system's operation, including clear documentation of interactions and the ability for oversight by independent bodies such as the Department of Justice, is essential to maintain public trust and ensure that the technology is used responsibly. Furthermore, the system must be designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring accessibility for all drivers and pedestrians, regardless of technological literacy or access to smart devices. The integration of this system into law enforcement practices must be guided by a commitment to fairness, accountability, transparency, and the protection of individual rights.
The security of the described system is a critical aspect that requires meticulous planning and robust implementation. Given the sensitive nature of the information being exchanged, such as driver's license numbers, proof of insurance, and breathalyzer results, the system must employ state-of-the-art encryption technologies to ensure that data is transmitted and stored securely. Access controls must be rigorously enforced to prevent unauthorized access to personal information, and a two-step authentication process should be implemented to verify the identity of both law enforcement officers and drivers or pedestrians. Regular security audits and monitoring should be conducted to detect and respond to any potential breaches or vulnerabilities. The system must also be designed to prevent potential abuse by law enforcement, such as unauthorized tracking or profiling, by implementing strict time and distance limitations on pairing and communication between devices. Security considerations must also extend to third-party components, such as cloud-based services and APIs, ensuring that they meet the same stringent security standards. Overall, the security architecture of the system must be holistic, encompassing not only technological measures but also legal and organizational safeguards to protect the privacy and integrity of all involved parties.
Although the invention has been described in considerable detail in language specific to structural features and or method acts, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as exemplary preferred forms of implementing the claimed invention. Stated otherwise, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Therefore, while exemplary illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Such variations and alternate embodiments are contemplated, and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
For example, per forensic verification purposes during the routine traffic stops, embodiments of this invention also include the functionalities which sends instant photo of driver to officer via the phone device. The Driver simply takes a “proof-of-life” photo (selfie) which indicates the current time and date stamp for instant verification for Police Officer to reference the photo with the DMV photo that already exists on Law Enforcement data base and computer systems. This will enable Law Enforcement to verify Driver without ever existing the vehicle.
The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/239,973 filed Aug. 30, 2023 which is a continuation in part to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/740,767 filed May 10, 2022, now Issued U.S. Pat. No. 11,776,293, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/953,326 filed on Nov. 19, 2020, now issued patent U.S. Ser. No. 11/328,526 published May 10, 3022, which is a continuation in part to serial number U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/588,004 filed on Sep. 30, 2019, now issued patent U.S. Ser. No. 10/943,104, published Mar. 9, 2021, which is a continuation of Ser. No. 16/137,347 filed on Sep. 20, 2018, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/562,225, filed on Sep. 22, 2017 the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated in its entirety at least by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62562225 | Sep 2017 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 18239973 | Aug 2023 | US |
| Child | 18379604 | US | |
| Parent | 16137347 | Sep 2018 | US |
| Child | 16588004 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 17740767 | May 2022 | US |
| Child | 18239973 | US | |
| Parent | 16953326 | Nov 2020 | US |
| Child | 17740767 | US | |
| Parent | 16588004 | Sep 2019 | US |
| Child | 16953326 | US |
