Addressing the Problem with the Smart, Safe Cities: My eBodyGuard Program
In today’s interconnected world, first responders are still grappling with a critical gap in real-time, objective data… ‘It is essential for law enforcement to have access to comprehensive information when responding to calls,’ says Rita Smith, a leading international expert in domestic violence. ‘In situations involving domestic violence or potential mental health issues, having prior history can lead to better outcomes. The My eBodyGuard technology equips officers with this crucial information en route, enabling them to be prepared for what they may encounter. This tool is not just about improving response—it’s about saving lives, both for those in distress and the first responders who are there to help.’“
To address this gap, especially as cities evolve into smarter, more connected environments, it is essential to introduce a comprehensive safety solution. The Smart, Safe Cities: My eBodyGuard Program aims to be that solution. As a GovTech/Social Impact company, our mission provides tools that bridge the disconnect between individuals, law enforcement, and other first responders. By doing so, we enhance safety, reduce violence, and minimize the societal costs associated with crime and emergency responses. At eBodyGuard, “We Are the Bridge” and we are dedicated to “Keeping You Safe Wherever You Are.”
How the Smart, Safe Cities: My eBodyGuard Program Would Have Prevented the Sonya Massey Incident
- Real-Time Objective Data Access
Current Challenge: In the Sonya Massey case, the absence of real-time, objective data regarding her situation, mental health status, and previous interactions with law enforcement led to a poorly managed response.
My eBodyGuard Solution: Our system includes a user-centric app integrated with real-time data capabilities, without compromising data privacy and security. This app can provide first responders with immediate access to critical information, including a person’s mental health status, previous interactions, and any relevant context. In Massey’s case, real-time access to her mental health history could have enabled a more informed, empathetic approach, reducing the risk of escalation.
- Enhanced Evidence Collection and Security
Current Challenge: The incident’s outcome was partly due to a lack of reliable, unbiased evidence and improper handling of the situation.
My eBodyGuard Solution: Our technology includes the My eBodyCam, which turns your smartphone into a personal body camera, and the My eBodyGuard Safety Profile, which contains essential personal information such as emergency contacts, family members, medical details, vehicles, pets, and a “Sometimes I’m Afraid Of ____” safety card. This system captures high-quality, real-time evidence of interactions.
The framework of how the data is securely stored in your private eBodyGuard GovCloud with strong privacy protections is set apart from any other company on the market today. We follow Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) standards, as well as FERPA, COPPA, and HIPAA, to ensure strict data privacy and security. This means all interactions are accurately documented and can be reviewed later to check procedural adherence. For instance, in Massey’s case, a comprehensive review of her My eBodyGuard Safety Profile and secure evidence collection could have clarified the situation and possibly prevented this tragic outcome.
- Trusted Platform for Coordination
Current Challenge: The fragmentation of information and lack of coordination among different agencies and departments can hinder effective responses.
My eBodyGuard Solution: Our integrated platform connects public safety with the community, including eBodyGuards, family members, and/or emergency contacts, to enhance coordination and communication. By ensuring that all involved parties have access to the same data during emergencies, we enable a more cohesive and informed response. In the case of the Massey incident, this approach could have minimized misunderstandings and errors.
Conclusion
The Smart, Safe Cities: My eBodyGuard Program is designed to address critical gaps in the current emergency response system by providing real-time, objective data, enhancing evidence collection, and promoting unbiased, well-informed interactions. Our mission is to bridge the gaps between technology, people, and processes to improve safety, reduce violence, and lower the societal costs associated with crime and emergencies. By implementing our system across smart cities, we aim to ensure a more secure and coordinated response to critical incidents, ultimately preventing tragedies like the one involving Sonya Massey.