The Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office has recently equipped its deputies with Rapid I.D. fingerprint scanners, a cutting-edge tool designed to instantly identify individuals through their fingerprints. These devices have proven invaluable in the field, particularly when suspects provide false names or refuse to identify themselves.
The Rapid I.D. scanners work by digitally submitting fingerprints to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database, allowing deputies to quickly determine if a person is wanted for any crimes. Sheriff Noel Brown expressed his satisfaction with the new technology, stating, "These devices have already demonstrated their effectiveness in enhancing our operations and ensuring public safety. We plan to acquire more of these scanners as soon as possible."
In a recent incident, Deputy Walter French utilized a Rapid I.D. scanner to identify Antonio Jadarius Crawford, a murder suspect wanted out of Savannah. Crawford had been on the run since November 7, when he allegedly committed a homicide in the 500 block of W. Gwinnett Court. Savannah Police Detectives reported that the shooting left one adult female deceased. Crawford was arrested on March 13 and charged with felony murder, aggravated assault, and two counts of possession of a firearm in commission of a felony.
Additionally, Corporal Austin Williams recently employed the Rapid I.D. device to confirm the identity of an individual who shot a Statesboro Police Officer. This swift identification process not only aids in the apprehension of dangerous criminals but also enhances the safety of law enforcement officers and the community.
The success of the Rapid I.D. scanners underscores the importance of incorporating advanced technology into law enforcement practices. The Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office’s proactive approach in adopting these devices highlights their commitment to maintaining public safety and improving the efficiency of their operations.
Sheriff Brown concluded, "The integration of Rapid I.D. scanners marks a significant step forward in our capability to swiftly and accurately identify criminals. We are dedicated to leveraging every tool at our disposal to protect our community."
With plans to expand the use of these scanners, the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office continues to set a precedent for innovative policing methods aimed at enhancing public safety and ensuring justice.