Niagara County Sheriff’s Office reveals new technology in patrol cars

The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office will be the first in the United States to implement iris biometric identification technology in their patrol cars.

Author: Olivia Beilein

Published: 1:30 PM EST November 27, 2024

NIAGARA COUNTY, N.Y. — The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office shared in a press release on Wednesday that they will become the first in the United States to implement a new technology into their patrol vehicles. 

In the press release the Sheriff’s Office wrote “Niagara County Sheriff Michael J. Filicetti announces that the Sheriff’s Office has become one of the first in the United States to implement iris biometric identification technology, via the Inmate Identification and Recognition System (I.R.I.S.) within a patrol vehicle. This deployment expands the department’s use of biometric technology beyond the County Jail, providing Deputies in the field with a powerful tool for fast and precise identity verification.”

The new technology which has been developed by B12 Technologies, can capture over 265 unique characteristics of an individual’s iris, and delivers exceptional accuracy. 

“Recognized as a reliable biometric tool, I.R.I.S. reduces the risk of misidentification – with the odds of two people sharing identical iris patterns estimated at 1 in 10 to the 78th power. Unlike fingerprinting, which can be impractical in the field due to time and equipment constraints, I.R.I.S. allows Deputies to confirm identities in real time from the patrol vehicle, quickly and non-invasively.” the Sherriff’s Office wrote. 

This new implementation of technology will give deputy’s the opportunity to confirm a criminal suspects identity in seconds. 

It can also help ensure that when appearance tickets are given the summons is issued to the correct individual, promoting accountability and reducing the chance of misidentification.

“We are honored to support the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office in their commitment to public safety,” said Sean G. Mullin, President & CEO of BI2 Technologies. “The implementation of I.R.I.S. in patrol vehicles sets a new standard for law enforcement, providing a quick and non-intrusive method to verify identities, and strengthen community security.”

“Whether it’s within our Correctional Facility or in the field, the I.R.I.S. helps to ensure a greatly reduced chance of misidentification,” Sheriff Filicetti said. “Now, a Deputy, at a glance, will be able to see if an suspect is within the I.R.I.S. database, and may respond accordingly to any information that search reveals.” Sheriff Filicetti added, “Our commitment to public safety drives us to utilize technology like I.R.I.S., making Niagara County a leader in effective, high-tech policing.”

To learn more click here or checkout the full press release attached below.