From ComputerWorld:
Ever wonder what that cop is doing in his cruiser that’s parked behind your car with lights flashing — while your heart is pounding and you’re searching for your license and registration?
Most likely, he’s researching you on his laptop, and finding a surprisingly large amount of information.
According to Lt. Paul Shastany of the Framingham, Mass., Police Department (FPD), laptops in the unit’s 24 patrol cars are the most important recent technology innovation that aids police work.