Policing ‘revolutionised’

Global policing leaders had a first look at the drug analyser from Randox while they were gathered in Belfast ahead of the World Police and Fire Games.

Currently, samples taken from suspects take time to be processed as they have to be sent to police labs to undergo testing.

That means a suspect may have to be released from custody on bail pending charges, running the risk of absconding and tying up resources with re-arrests.

But the new technology from Randox would mean police officers could test samples on site, checking for several drugs simultaneously and getting results in under 10 minutes.

By bringing quality screening right to the point of detention, law enforcement agencies can speed up the investigative and judicial process.

Faster testing would then allow for earlier opportunities to charge suspects and it is thought that more guilty pleas would be entered, speeding up the judicial process.

“The challenge for Randox is ensuring the technology can be applied at the level of expertise available within typical custody scenarios,” Gary McCutcheon, Randox Testing Services Operations Manager, said.

“With this unique opportunity to speak to global policing leaders on our doorstep, we are confident delegates recognise how the technology can be applied.”