We often see caped and masked superheroes save the day in movies. In reality, however, we have cops – the actual superheroes. We rely on them to keep us and our cities safe. And in doing so, they often seek the help of technology. One such technology is the GPS. A wide array of GPS-based tools, daily usage appliances, and smartphone applications enable the tracing and trailing of victims and suspects, illegal substances, and significant possessions and capital.
Therefore, law divisions and national and federal authorities employ GPS tracking solutions for civil safety and protection to improve competence and reduce expenditures when accomplishing day-to-day activities and training and actions.
How Cops Use GPS Tracking
- To surveil, track, and apprehend/recover suspects and stolen assets.
- Coordinate with other teams and their counterparts from other departments.
- With real-time location tracking, cops no longer need to be physically present to tail their suspects.
- Increase performance and reduce costs.
- GPS tracking information works as admissible evidence.
- Avoid the use of police assets for personal use.
- Find the fastest route to the site of emergency or crime.
- Track paroled inmates to ensure they do not violate the terms of their parole.
- Along with the above features, law enforcement also benefits from GPS trackers in saving time and money. The data from these trackers help them optimize their fuel and maintenance costs.
A GPS tracker in patrol cars and air units allows effective civil protection GPS trailing and tagging can identify the precise location of each automobile in the fleet. It also facilitates the administrators and law enforcers to help coordinate their operations. These GPS devices also monitor other officers to ensure adherence to their designated zones.
Law Enforcement Bodies That Use GPS Tracking Solution
There are over 17,985 U.S. police agencies in the United States. But here are the few biggest agencies that actively use GPS trackers:
- ATF (Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms)
- BLM (Bureau of Land Management)
- Department of Energy
- FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Activity)
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife
- U.S. Marshals
FEATURES COPS LOOK FOR IN A GPS TRACKER:
The police cannot use just any tracker; they need tracking devices and solutions that suit their requirements.
- Small in size so that it can be concealed anywhere easily
- Long battery life to enable cops in continuous tracking.
- The tracker must have in-built magnets or a magnetic case.
- It must be sturdy, weatherproof, waterproof, and tamperproof so that all the evidence it collects is safe.
- It must offer coverage all over the country and neighboring countries. To ensure the cops do not lose sight of whatever they are tracking.
- More importantly, as law enforcement gets paid with the taxpayers’ money, they need to keep their expenses in check. A tracking solution that offers the most utility at a reasonable price is best suited for this job.
LAW ENFORCEMENT RELY ON THESE 5 GPS TRACKERS
We at GPSTracker247 have compiled a list of 5 GPS trackers most commonly used and preferred by law enforcement officials. Considering several factors like price, data accuracy, instant response, and durability, these 6 GPS trackers offer a considerable tactical advantage to cops and other officers:
Invoxia Cellular GPS Tracker
Buy from Invoxia Buy from Amazon Buy from Ebay
Cops prefer the Invoxia Cellular GPS Tracker because it delivers high-tech tracking features in a compact hardware design. Given its small size and in-built magnets, cops can use it to track any suspect or illegal shipment. It also comes with long battery life, enabling the police to track their leads for a long time without worrying about the device shutting off mid-operation.
Another notable aspect that the cops mentioned was the price and subscription of this device. The device cost includes a one-year subscription, making it comparatively more economical than other options in the market.
You can get the device for $129 with one year of free subscription.
Product Highlights
- Small size
- Motion Alerts
- Coverage in over 190 countries
- Custom contacts alert for emergencies
Battery and Specs
- Size: 1.75″ x 1.6″ x 0.6″
- Weight: 1.26 Oz
- Battery: 3,5000 mAh
- Battery Type: Internal and Rechargeable
- 2-3 active battery life with 1-5 updates every minute
- 3-months battery with one update per day
Family1st Portable GPS Tracker
Buy from Family1st Buy from Amazon Buy from Ebay
Family1st portable GPS tracker is another tracking device in the market that cops swear by. Although designed to cater to personal tracking use, the features and add-on services that Family1st offers at a reasonable price make it a favorite for all. What attracts law enforcement to this tracker? Its multi-channel connectivity, 14days+ battery life, and coverage all over the USA, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and U.S. Virgin Island.
The device comes with a 4G sim, integrates Wi-Fi for indoor tracking, and works well with Alexa. At one location update every minute, the battery of this device can transmit data for over two weeks.
It comes with a geofencing feature, which cops can use to keep a valuable witness or a parolee within a pre-defined boundary. If they cross this safe zone, the cops can take immediate action to retain them. Also, if police use this tracker to monitor a witness, the latter can press the SOS button to alert the officers of any distress.
The device is priced at $28.95. The monthly subscription starts at $19.95 only.
Product Highlights
- Track your assets, vehicle, family, or pets anytime
- Works in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands
- Cost-Effective GPS tracker for only $28.95
- Lowest monthly subscription starting at only $19.95
- GPS tracker integrated with Alexa
Tech Specifications
| Dimensions | 2.8*1.8*1.1 inches |
| Weight | 3.60 ounces |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE |
| Compatibility | USA, Mexico, and Canada |
| Battery | 2400 mAh Li-Polymer |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Pricing and Subscription
The cost of one device is around $28.95 followed by a monthly subscription of $19.95
Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker
Buy from Optimus Buy from Amazon Buy from Ebay Buy from Walmart
The next on our list is the Optimus 2.0 GPS tracker – one of the best options available for vehicle tracking. The device comes with twin magnetic cases, which makes it waterproof. And for this reason, cops like it. They can use it regardless of the weather or terrain.
Optimus 2.0 vehicle tracker has two weeks of active battery life, another reason why it makes a great stakeout buddy.
Installation and integration of the Optimus tracking solution – hardware and software – is simple and can be done in just a few minutes. One of the reasons cops prefer using this tracker is its versatility. They can use the same device multiple times – to track cars, assets, and people. Also, cops can view the tracker on Google Maps in real-time.
Optimus 2.0 GPS tracker also has a nifty little feature for cops and investigators – special routing. This feature allows them to check the trail or roads their subjects frequently visit.
You can get the device at $59.95 with a subscription of only $19.95 a month.
Product Highlights
- No Contract, No hidden fees, and can cancel anytime
- Hide and Track
- Powerful and discrete tracking
- Consistent Updates
Tech Specifications
| Dimensions | 1*1.5*3 inches |
| Weight | 3.3 ounces |
| Connectivity | 4G Cellular connectivity |
| Battery | 1 Lithium Polymer battery required (2-week battery) |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Coverage | USA and Canada |
Pricing and Subscription
The average cost of an Optimus 2.0 portable GPS tracker device is $39.95. Also, the monthly charge is around $19.95 per month.
Trak-4 GPS Tracker
Buy from Trak4 Buy from Amazon Buy from Ebay Buy from Walmart
Trak-4 GPS tracker is on this list because of its information-sharing feature. Cops can locate and share their real-time information with colleagues, making it easier to coordinate. Like all other trackers in this list, the Trak-4 GPS tracker is compact and nicely fits into any nook or corner in any vehicle, asset, backpack, or more.
Another neat feature of this device is that it can send daily reports for up to 18 months on a single charge. So, if the police want to track a person of interest for a very long-time, Trak-4 GPS can help them out.
Trak-4 offers its users a dedicated web and mobile application compatible with all Android and iOS devices. The app can be programmed to send alerts and notifications for low battery, geo zone entry/exit, and other pre-determined and customized incidents.
Police work is fast-paced, and they can rely only on vendors that can match their needs. Trak-4 is well-known in the market for its accurate and fast customer service, which comes at no extra charge.
You can get the device for $48.80, with a subscription of only $6.99 per month.
Product Highlights
- Location Sharing
- Small and compact design
- Weatherproof device
Battery & Specs
- Size: 2.5” x 1.75” x 1.25”
- Weight:3oz
- Battery: 4600 mAh
- Battery type: Internal and Rechargeable
- 2-weeks active battery life with one-minute updates
- 18 months battery life with one update per day
LandAirSea54
Buy from Land Airsea Buy from Amazon Buy from Ebay Buy from Walmart
The LandAirSea 54 is a 4G LTE Real-Time Waterproof GPS Tracker. It comes with an internal magnet and SIM Card. Cops can use this asset tracking device for vehicles, people, boats, ATVs, bikes, and more. The tracker has LED lights, which can be turned off for discreet tracking, making it perfect for the cops. The device is small and can fit into the glove box or under a car without much effort.
Like Trak-4, LandAirDea54 has ShareSpot(TM), allowing location sharing. The device and app offer various alerts, including Geofence Alerts, Speed Alerts, InstaFence, and Battery Alerts.
While surveillance, the police need to keep an accurate record of all their proceedings. LandAirSea54 GPS tracking solution keeps historical records of stops, location, etc., for 18 months, simplifying their jobs.
The device costs $29.95 only. The subscription is based on the frequency of location updates you opt for. The higher the frequency, the higher the amount. The lowest starts from $19.95 per month for 3-minutes updates.
Product Highlights
- Ultra-compact design
- Reliable tracking
- Strong magnetic mount
- Waterproof & Weatherproof
Tech Specifications
| Dimensions | 2.25*2.25*0.8 inches |
| Weight | 4.8 ounces |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE |
| Compatibility | Full Global Coverage |
| Battery | 1 Lithium-ion battery required |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Pricing and Subscription
The device costs around $29.95 and the monthly subscription plan starts from $19.95 to as high as $49.95 per month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does law enforcement use GPS trackers?
Law enforcement agencies use GPS trackers to assist in criminal investigations, monitor the location of suspects, and track stolen vehicles.
What are the benefits of using GPS trackers in law enforcement?
The benefits of using GPS trackers in law enforcement include increased efficiency in investigations, improved officer safety, and the ability to quickly recover stolen property.
How do these GPS trackers differ from other GPS trackers on the market?
These GPS trackers are specifically designed for law enforcement use and have features such as long battery life, small size, and real-time tracking capabilities.
Can anyone purchase these GPS trackers, or are they only available to law enforcement?
These GPS trackers are available to the general public and can be purchased by anyone.
Are there any legal concerns with using GPS trackers in law enforcement?
There are some legal concerns with using GPS trackers in law enforcement, such as privacy concerns and the need for a warrant in certain situations.
Can GPS trackers be used to track individuals without their knowledge or consent?
In most cases, GPS trackers cannot be used to track individuals without their knowledge or consent, as this may be a violation of privacy laws.
What should I consider when choosing a GPS tracker for personal use?
When choosing a GPS tracker for personal use, it’s important to consider factors such as battery life, size and portability, accuracy, and real-time tracking capabilities.
Takeaway
Cops have a crucial role in sustaining a liveable society. Because of the sensitive nature of their jobs, they are required to act responsibly. GPS tracking solutions help them carry out their duties efficiently. Moreover, these trackers also offer verification of their integrity. That is why it is important for law enforcement to choose their GPS trackers wisely. Our list only includes a few of the trackers available in the market that meet the job requirement. If you are a cop or have used any of the above trackers, let us know your experience in the comments section below!
Carson Rogers is a technology writer and reviewer. With over 5 years of experience in the industry, he has established himself as an expert in the technology niche. His passion for all things tech and his keen eye for detail enable him to provide thorough and insightful product reviews that help readers make informed decisions. Carson enjoys hiking in his free time when he's not busy reviewing the latest gadgets. His love for the outdoors also inspires him to write about tech gadgets that are useful and make life convenient.