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October 1, 2007

Police Cozy Up To StarChase: Cannon-Fired GPS Tracking Devices That Stick To Your Car

Dodge Charger Police Car

The long arm of the law just got a lot longer, thanks to a patented new system called the StarChase Pursuit Management System. How does it work? A cannon mounted in the front grill of a police cruiser uses compressed air to fire a sticky GPS transmitter at fleeing cars, which immediately begins sending back real-time GPS positioning information.

StarChase says the new system, already being tested by the LAPD, will allow officers to avoid dangerous high-speed pursuits. StarChase also claims that 85% of the reported 100,000 pursuits that take place in the U.S. every year are initiated by non-violent offenders, and are needlessly dangerous to officers, civilians, and criminals.

The devices, or "beacons" use the cellular network to transmit information back to the Heat. GPS tracking information will be available to the officer in the car as well as Police HQ, where supervisors can monitor the situation. StarChase also offers a handheld launcher. The company says various police departments will begin deploying the system sometime in 2008.

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