Which technology is commonly used by law enforcement to locate missing persons?

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a powerful tool used by law enforcement to locate missing persons due to its ability to analyze spatial data and provide visual representations of geographic information. GIS can integrate various data types, such as mapping locations where a person was last seen, tracking cell phone pings, and overlaying relevant environmental factors. This technology allows law enforcement to create detailed maps that reveal patterns or highlight areas of interest, significantly aiding in search efforts.

While facial recognition software can assist in identifying individuals, it is not primarily used for locating missing persons unless there is a photographic record. Body-worn cameras are useful for recording interactions and events but do not play a direct role in locating missing individuals. Predictive policing algorithms analyze data to anticipate where crimes may occur, which is different from actively locating persons. Thus, GIS stands out as the most relevant technology for effectively locating missing persons.