The Newport News Police Department has increased its technology to help reduce violent crime. Author: Angelo Vargas Updated: 7:58 PM EDT June 29, 2021 NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The Newport News Police Department is trying new ways to reduce, prevent, and solve crimes in its city. “This time last year we had seven or eight homicides. Today, we have 15," said Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew. Chief Drew explained the department is focused on increasing the police department's technology resources. “There’s so much technology out there that can speed things up. We’re looking at bringing a fingerprint technician. We’re upgrading our AVIS system. We have a NIBIN system here that can collect shell casings and firearms that we test fire to tell if those casings have been recovered in any other particular firearm shooting," said Drew.