The new equipment will be used to spot signs of concealed weapons, drugs and other items involved in criminality, increasing the options available to disrupt criminal gangs, keep people safe and get offenders off the streets.
The kit saves the need for, and the time involved in, more intrusive searches, such as areas of properties or vehicles that are hard to get to or require forced entry. It can also be used for large scale events to lessen the resources needed for searches and free up officers to tackle crime elsewhere.
The technology is funded through the Commissioner’s Safer Lancashire Neighbourhoods Fund which, alongside community grants, supports innovative ideas being delivered that make a positive difference to policing in Lancashire.
Inspector Greg Laidlow demonstrated how the scanner works as he and his officers put the kit through its paces, testing out the capabilities and seeing the difference it makes in the fight against crime. He talked about the difference the equipment will make in fighting crime and use in ensuring large scale events are safe and secure.
Andrew Snowden, Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner said:
“We are continuously looking at ways we can make life more difficult for criminals operating within Lancashire’s borders, and the addition of this scanning capability does exactly that. We must stay one step ahead of offenders and invest in new improved technologies that deliver value for money and make a difference in day-to-day policing.
“By freeing up resources with this new kit and providing a less invasive and time-consuming way to search, we’re reinforcing that there’s nowhere left to hide if you’re transporting or concealing illegal substances or weapons – we’ll catch you and put you behind bars.
“I’m always keen to support ideas and investments that drive new ways of working or enhance the service delivered to the people of Lancashire and will continue to back the Chief Constable as we take the fight to criminals and deliver on my Fighting Crime Plan.”
