Mobile fingerprint device praised

The devices have already led to a number of arrests

Police in County Durham have said they are starting to reap the benefits of a mobile device which checks fingerprint records via a wireless link.

The Lantern hand-held terminals allow officers to scan someone's fingerprints without having to take them to a police station.

They are then sent to the national fingerprint database, with the findings coming through in minutes.

A spokesman said there had already been a number of impressive results.

These include identifying an unconscious man and finding someone wanted by another force.

Their use has also led to a number of arrests.

About 50 road policing and core officers from the south of the county have been trained in the use of the Lantern equipment.