OFFICERS at Cheshire police are now equipped with mobile fingerprint technology to check the identity of suspects on the street.

The devices will flag up suspects who try to provide a false identity. 

The fingerprint devices acquired by Cheshire Constabulary means that anyone who is stop searched and suspected of being dishonest will have their fingerprints scanned at the scene. 

It can also be used on those whose identities are unknown such as the unconscious or deceased. 

Police and crime commissioner for Cheshire John Dwyer said that they have had ‘excellent results’ and that the piece of kit saves time for officers who would otherwise have to arrest someone. 

He added: ‘It also helps the community by identifying people quickly so that their families can be informed or the correct medical treatment administered in time.

‘At the start of the financial year I approved a budget, which enabled us to invest money in technology and transform the current estate to enable officers to spend more time on the front line.

"This new kit is part of our commitment to making policing efficient, cost effective and very much 21st century.’