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GPS Tracking devices have many personal and commercial applications. Businesses use them to track the location of vehicles and monitor vehicle use; parents track teen drivers or young children who are in the care of others. In addition, law enforcement agencies are dependent on gps tracking technology for much of the work they do in preventing and fighting crime. Police departments most often use gps tracking companies for the following purposes.



Tracking Police Vehicles



Police departments use GPS trackers on all their vehicles. This lets the department know which vehicles are closest to an emergency call or crime scene so that the right cars can be notified. Trackers also provide more security for officers who are out on the road. For example, backup can be sent quickly without an officer having to waste time giving directions, or help can be sent in case of an accident. Furthermore, GPS devices also give information to drivers about traffic conditions, helping them navigate the fastest route to a crime scene or distress call.



Tracking Other Vehicles



By secretly attaching a GPS device to the car of a suspect, the police can track someone's movements without sending a car to follow him or her. Some police cars now are fitted with a machine that shoots a GPS tracker at a car they're pursuing. The bullet-like trackers are covered in an adhesive that sticks to the car in front, allowing the police car to follow at a safe speed and eliminating the danger of a high-speed car chase. A recent court decision, however, has determined that police officers must obtain a warrant before planting a tracking device on a suspect's car.



Tracking Cargo



A police officer can also use a tracking device to track the movement of cargo. For example, a tracker might be placed on a valuable piece of art that is being transported and is vulnerable to theft. However, trackers can also be hidden in contraband to aid detectives in discovering how and where illegal goods are moved.



Tracking Parolees



When inmates are released from prison on parole, they must live under certain limitations until the parole period is complete. They may be required to stay within a certain geographic area or may be prohibited from visiting certain places. Some prisons give GPS bracelets to parolees that will automatically notify the parole officer if he or she leaves a pre-determined area or goes to a forbidden location.