LOS ANGELES - Raytheon Company has begun equipping the motorcycle fleet of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) with computers that provide a new level of public safety and efficiency capabilities. Approximately 100 motorcycles will carry the computers in saddle bags by this fall, according to a release from Raytheon.

Computer access enables officers to perform license plate checks and wanted persons inquiries, and access to other law enforcement information.

"These laptops make possible new technologies, like electronic citations, which will shorten the time it takes to issue a citation and provide more time for deputies to better serve the public. An added benefit is reduced voice radio traffic, a critical lifeline for all law enforcement officers," said Capt. Scott Edson of the LASD.

Raytheon was selected last year to upgrade 1980s-era terminals in LASD vehicles with technology that offered more capabilities than the department had ever had. That effort is now extending to its motorcycle fleet as well.

Also in Los Angeles County, Raytheon is replacing dispatch consoles for the sheriff and fire departments, enabling them to be more responsive to their communities while raising efficiency and lowering maintenance costs. For the first time, Fire Department dispatchers will now have the ability to directly connect with nearby fire agencies at the touch of a button.