Police Holmes 2 system gets an upgrade

Searching across police databases is set to become easier after an upgrade to a major computer system.

The Home Office Large Major Enquiry System 2 (Holmes 2) version 11 upgrade will improve searches across different databases, allowing for better information sharing between forces. Holmes 2 also features a smart search tool which understands context and helps cross-reference information.

"Holmes 2 helps police forces manage the large amount of information generated by major crime investigations," said John Neil, director of operational services of the Police Information Technology Organisation.

Neil said Holmes 2 is used in about half of all murder investigations, where it is key to organising evidence and making the links which can lead to a breakthrough in a case.