Revamped HPD Communication System to Keep Callers Updated on Their Inquiries
The Hawai'i Police Department has launched a new technology program called Versaterm CommunityConnect, marking a significant step forward in community-police interaction through modern technology. This innovative system aims to keep cellphone users informed about both emergency and non-emergency police responses, while also improving communication with the community [2][3][5].
For mobile callers, the program sends automated text messages confirming receipt of their request for assistance, improving responsiveness and transparency [5]. For landline callers, while explicit details are not provided, the system is designed to streamline information flow by integrating with dispatch systems [1].
The benefits of the program include improved communication, enhanced community engagement, and operational efficiency. Mobile callers receive immediate feedback via automated texts, reducing uncertainty about call status [5]. By providing timely updates and making the process more transparent, CommunityConnect fosters trust and cooperation between residents and the police [3][5]. Integration with Versaterm’s dispatch technologies helps streamline handling of calls for service, enabling more effective resource deployment [4].
The Hawai'i Police Department is the first in the state to implement this technology as of late July 2025 [2][3][5]. The program is designed to help the department "keep up with the times" and improve communication with the community. If the caller does not speak English, the automated messages can be sent in Spanish and Tagalog [1].
Users can register on the Versaterm website to start receiving notifications via their email address or landline phone. The program allows users to know if a call for service is going to be delayed and reduces the need for continuous calls for updates. However, real-time updates will not be sent for in-progress incidents or situations where messaging could pose a risk to those involved [1].
The program does not send real-time updates for sensitive cases like domestic violence, sexual assaults, etc., and death notifications will continue to be done in person [1]. The initial cost for the first year of service is $100,832 [1]. The website for the Versaterm CommunityConnect platform is www.engage.hawaiipolice.gov [1].
Projections indicate that text messages about service delays should reduce call backs to dispatch by 40% [1]. The department will evaluate the effectiveness of the program on the Big Island [1]. This move towards modern technology is a testament to the Hawai'i Police Department's ongoing commitment to transparency and community engagement [3].
The Hawai'i Police Department's new technology program, Versaterm CommunityConnect, aims to improve community-police interaction by keeping cellphone users updated on both emergency and non-emergency police responses, hence addressing crime-related issues [2][3][5]. By offering automated text messages for mobile callers and integrating with dispatch systems for landline callers, the program enhances communication within the community [1][5].
