Northgate broadens offer with software acquisition

Northgate Public Services has announced the acquisition of Charter Systems, which it describes as “a leading supplier of covert operations software to police services in the UK and Canada.”

According to Northgate, software developed by the latter company is used by more than 60 per cent of forces in the UK. It anticipates that the acquisition will bring “substantial benefits” to the police service.

Speaking of the move, Northgate’s executive director of public safety, Ian Blackhurst, said: “It’s essential for undercover officers to have access to the most up-to-date and accurate information, to be able to predict and prevent crime.

“This acquisition is a great opportunity for us to expand our offer and will bring substantial value to customers of both Charter and NPS. Our working practices are already very similar, so we will be able to start adding value to our solutions straight away.”

Aaron Hughes, CEO of the digital division of Equiniti - which previously owned Charter Systems - said: “We are pleased to sell [the company] to a complementary acquirer, and wish our colleagues and former clients well for the future. This disposal allows EQ to continue to focus on its core businesses.”

Northgate Public Services provides policing IT solutions. According to figures quoted by the company, more than 50 per cent of UK police forces use its CONNECT crime, custody and intelligence management system.

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