Ohio’s New Electronic Warrant Database
COLUMBUS, OH (WBNS) – Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted have launched eWarrants, the state’s new online database that tracks all warrants and protection orders across the state. The eWarrants system replaces the state’s old electronic warrant repository, ensuring more accurate background checks for law enforcement officers and improved access to information by the public.
eWarrants allows police departments to create an arrest or search warrant from their squad car and electronically send it directly to the judge. The judge is able to review the warrant through a secure video conferencing link and respond from any location. This enables law enforcement officers to act immediately on probable cause and reduces the chance that suspects may be tipped off or run away.
The eWarrants system is being implemented at no cost to all law enforcement agencies and courts in Ohio. The software can also be easily integrated with existing record management systems vendors that most agencies use. The system has been developed by InnovateOhio, and the state is partnering with the county governments to promote the benefits of the system to their communities and law enforcement officials.
Police chiefs and their staffs need to start planning for the adoption of a digital warrants process now. A good first step is to schedule meetings or phone calls with police departments that have already implemented an eWarrants system. This will give you an opportunity to learn about their challenges and lessons learned. Ewarrants