Many agencies have a Live Scan device used to fingerprint individuals. In and of itself, a Live Scan device can provide several benefits including:
Eliminates messy fingerprinting with ink
Eliminates duplicate keying
Real-time verification of fingerprint quality
Correct bad prints easier
Eliminates dual fingerprinting for FBI
Fingerprint once - generate multiple cards/copies
Reduces physical contact with inmate
Prompt screening for prior criminal record
Immediate update of criminal record
Provides the infrastructure for submitting mug shots, palm prints, scars, marks and tattoos to the Michigan State Police Statewide Network of Agency Photos (SNAP)
However, these are only a small portion of the potential benefits that are available through electronic submission of Live Scan records.
Electronic submission of Live Scan records to the state database provides additional benefits including:
Quick ID/Positive ID
Helps law enforcement ensure positive identification of apprehended offenders
Helps employers reduce delays in background checks in the hiring of criminal justice employees, school personnel, security guards, etc. (State and FBI responses within 24 hours)
Helps the Department of Corrections ensure inmate identity prior to release
Helps the Department of Corrections verify open warrants/holds prior to inmate release
Helps the law enforcement validate prior contact and pending charges at time of arrest
Paperless Environment:
One time data entry:
Enter arrest information at booking
Transfers to Live Scan
Transfers to MSP and updates criminal history records
Transfers to prosecuting attorney who adds charging information
Eliminates:
Re-entry of data at Live Scan device
Entry of data at MSP by data coding operators
Fingerprint cards
Manual reporting by prosecuting attorney
Timely Reporting:
IMMEDIATELY updates the individual's criminal history record with arrest data, at the time of arrest
Provides more accurate criminal history information for prosecutor charging decisions
Provides a more "complete" picture for the court when setting bail and making sentencing decisions
Provides more accurate and up-to-date criminal history records for applicant searches such as CCW, private security, schools, nursing homes, etc
Other Benefits:
Reduce liability resulting from releasing a wanted person who gave a false name
Avoid potential lawsuits by positive ID before incarcerating
Identify suspects in other crimes when fingerprints are checked against unsolved latent fingerprint database