Cell Tower News: To catch a killer

by Jarad Matula January 15, 2016

written by Jarad Matula January 15, 2016

Tower data being used to search for killer

The use of cell tower data has been a highly controversial topic in the past couple of years. It’s use, if not properly authorized, can be viewed as a violation of privacy. This week the use of tower data is being employed to catch suspects connected to a convenience store murder in Chesterfield, Virginia.

Harshard Patel, 55, was killed in the robbery of the convenience store he owned. It has been reported police have requested four search warrants for cell tower data from Verizon Wireless. The police hope to use the information to track the four suspects connected to the crime. Collecting tower data in order to catch a killer isn’t so out of ordinary for police work, but with stories that pop up about police using illegal stingrays, as well as seizing data without a search warrant, it’s great to see a police force using the proper channels to obtain information that could lead to bringing this killer to justice.

FirstNet moves forward

The First Responder Network Authority released its official request for proposals for the nationwide LTE network for public safety called FirstNet. It is asking that potential partners respond by April 29. According to the newly released information, FirstNet seeks a “comprehensive network solution covering each of the 56 states and territories” and includes a core network, radio access network, backhaul, aggregation, the use of national transport and operation centers as well as “a device ecosystem; use of network infrastructure; deployable capabilities; use of operational and business support systems; an applications ecosystem; network services; and the integration, maintenance, operational services and ongoing evolution of these systems required to function fully as an operational wireless [3GPP] standards-based [LTE] network.”

One point of particular interest is despite AT&T clearly stating it has great interest in FirstNet, it has been reported FirstNet views Verizon Wireless as the carrier best positioned to help it accomplish its goals.

For more information on key elements of the RFP and plans for FirstNet, a two-hour public webinar is being held Jan. 15.