COLUMBUS – In a move to modernize community policing and enhance public safety, the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office has announced the acquisition of five state-of-the-art portable translation devices.
The handheld units are designed to provide real-time, two-way communication between deputies and residents in 92 different languages, effectively removing the communication barriers that can hinder emergency responses and routine police work.
The new devices are expected to be deployed across several divisions, including patrol and jail staff. By allowing a deputy to speak into the device and have it instantly translated into a listener’s native tongue—and vice versa—the department aims to de-escalate potentially volatile situations where a lack of understanding could lead to confusion or injury.
“Our goal is to serve every member of our community with professionalism, respect, and understanding. Having these devices as translation tools, we are ensuring that language differences do not stand in the way of safety or access to services,” said Sheriff Chris Lane. “My office remains committed to adopting innovation that will strengthen community relationships and enhance overall safety.”
Sheriff Lane identifies three primary areas where the devices will be utilized:
- Emergency Responses: Gaining critical information from victims or witnesses during accidents or crimes when every second counts.
- Routine Interactions: Assisting with traffic stops, wellness checks, and administrative inquiries.
- Jail Operations: Improving safety and compliance within the Bartholomew County Jail by ensuring staff can communicate rules and medical needs to non-English speaking inmates.
The investment comes as many Indiana counties see a rise in linguistic diversity. According to recent U.S. Census data, the number of households in Bartholomew County speaking a language other than English has grown steadily over the last decade, with significant populations speaking Spanish, Japanese, and various dialects from the Indian subcontinent.
Previously, deputies often had to rely on telephonic translation services—which can be slow to connect—or find a bilingual officer to head to the scene. These new handheld devices offer an immediate alternative that fits in a pocket or on a duty belt.
The use of translation technology is also seen as a step toward meeting Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which requires agencies receiving federal funding to provide meaningful access to people with limited English proficiency.
By equipping deputies with these tools, Bartholomew County joins a growing list of Hoosier law enforcement agencies—including those in neighboring Johnson and Marion counties—that are turning to AI-powered translation to foster better community engagement and ensure that all residents, regardless of the language they speak, have equal access to protection and service.
