Cass County proposes digital transformation for state's attorney's office with Axon Justice software

In a pivotal meeting held on June 2, 2025, the Cass County Commission in North Dakota discussed a significant digital transformation initiative aimed at modernizing the operations of the state's attorney's office. The proposal, presented by Bobby, outlined a three-phase plan designed to enhance the management of digital evidence and streamline case handling.

The first phase focuses on implementing a digital evidence management system through a software called Axon Justice. This tool is intended to provide a uniform method for ingesting, organizing, and distributing digital evidence, which has become increasingly complex in today's technology-driven world. Currently, the process of managing digital evidence is cumbersome and error-prone, often requiring manual copying and distribution of data across various formats. The new system aims to reduce the time and resources spent on these tasks, allowing staff to focus on more critical functions.

Bobby emphasized the need for this modernization, noting that the state's attorney's office is facing an ever-growing workload from the community. The proposed software will not only improve efficiency but also enhance the accuracy of evidence management, which is crucial for successful prosecutions.

The second phase of the initiative will build on the success of the first by introducing a digital case management system. This system will help attorneys manage their documentation electronically, reducing reliance on paper files and enabling real-time access to case information during court proceedings. The goal is to transition to a paperless environment, significantly cutting down on physical storage needs and associated costs.

The final phase will address record retention policies, ensuring compliance with industry standards while potentially involving third-party vendors to digitize existing paper records. This comprehensive approach aims to create a more efficient and effective legal process within the county.

Funding for the initial phase is proposed to come from the asset forfeiture fund, which currently holds a balance of approximately $425,000. The estimated cost for the first year of Axon Justice is $47,250, with additional expenses anticipated for the subsequent phases.

Commissioners expressed optimism about the potential long-term savings and efficiency gains from the digital transformation. Bobby projected that the initiative could lead to a 20% reduction in staff time, allowing for better allocation of resources and potentially fewer staffing needs in the future.

As the meeting concluded, the commission moved to authorize the first phase of the digital transformation project, setting the stage for a significant shift in how the state's attorney's office operates in the years to come. This initiative not only reflects the county's commitment to embracing technology but also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by legal systems in adapting to the digital age.