Mobile Fingerprint Scanners Help Local Sheriff’s Department

According to WILX-TV 10, some local police departments are now able to run fingerprints on the go.  The Eaton County Sheriff's office is one of the first in the state to get mobile fingerprint scanners, which will help them more easily identify people.

The device works by scanning two fingers, then sending that information to a computer in the officer's car.  That connects to both the Michigan Automated Fingerprint System and the FBI's fingerprint system.  Within minutes of the scan, officers can find out if there's a match.

The scan is optional and can be used for more than just traffic stops.  Sheriff Tom Reich says the biggest benefit is knowing if someone has an outstanding warrant, which is exactly what happened the first time the department used the scanner.