High-tech help in crime fight

THE new fingerprint device being tested by GMP

A NEW device that can identify potential offenders within minutes is being tested by local police.

Officers across Greater Manchester will be given a mobile electronic fingerprint device that will save hours of time and prevent people giving false information.

As part of a national scheme, Project Lantern, 35 of the hand-held devices will be given to officers across all GMP divisions before being rolled out across the country within the next 12 months.

While on the beat, officers can check a person’s identity with the machine if they are already on the National Fingerprint Database, Ident1, which is linked to the Police National Computer (PNC).

At the push of a button the device will allow officers to see if someone is wanted for any other crime in the country and within minutes their identity can be established so officers can decide on the spot if any further action is needed.

Assistant Chief Constable Dave Thompson said: “This device will be absolutely invaluable in our fight against criminals and will have a hugely positive impact on front-line policing in Greater Manchester.

“It will enable officers to prove whether someone is who they say they are within minutes.

“It can take hours to arrest someone and transfer them to a police station just to establish their identity, so the hand-held device will mean officers can spend more time on the streets and less time in custody suites, which is what the public want.

“It also sends a powerful message to criminals. With this piece of kit, they cannot lie to police about who they are.

“For instance, if we stop someone who gives false details, within minutes we will know their true identity and officers can decide on the spot if further action is needed. There will be no place to hide.

“With this excellent piece of equipment, more criminals will be brought to justice.”