CARMEL — TRACS or Traffic and Criminal Software is bringing the Putnam Sheriff’s Department into the 21st century.

The technology is a state operated computerized system that allows a deputy to automatically dispense a traffic summons. The equipment is also extremely helpful when officers create reports at the scene of an incident.

Undersheriff Peter Convery told the Putnam Courier TRACS is “very cost effective because data is always being updated by the technology. Another major benefit is that paperwork will be reduced.”

When an officer stops a car for a traffic violation, TRACS accepts the data from the officer. The computer prints a ticket with a copy turned over to the motorist and data automatically forwarded to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles in Albany.

Convery said TRACS will “increase the capability of all officers using it.”

Captain Richard Stellacci explained that data is “scanned into the system. Not only does TRACS assist the officer and the DMV but it will benefit the local courts as well because all information taken from the summons will be automatically forwarded to the jurisdiction where the citation is to be adjudicated.”

The new system was purchased by the county through a state grant.