New Eye-Scanning Technology Implemented In Oklahoma Law Enforcement Agencies

Pawnee County is among three dozen Oklahoma law enforcement agencies adopting a new biometric identification system that scans inmates' eyes.

Undersheriff Nick Mahoney told News on 6’s Erin Conrad that the technology is already proving beneficial for jail staff.

The Pawnee County Jail has been using the system for about a week, but they say it has already cut booking times in half and alerted them to potential red flags or health concerns.

Undersheriff Mahoney demonstrated how the new system streamlines the booking process by scanning an inmate’s eyes.

"Right now, they have to fill out some booking paperwork, and then we have to ask the inmate a bunch of questions. This streamlines that," Mahoney said.

The new process reduces the time officers, deputies, and troopers spend booking inmates, cutting it from 30 minutes to 15 minutes.

"So we're going from a 30-minute book-in process to a 15-minute book-in process," he added.

The system also identifies medical histories and health risks, including concerns related to COVID-19 or hepatitis.

"So while it won't predict a medical emergency, it most certainly helps our medical staff in the treatment of the inmates while they're here," Mahoney said.

The technology, which costs tens of thousands of dollars, is being provided at no cost to the sheriff’s office and 35 other rural agencies through a CDC grant and the Oklahoma Sheriff’s Association.

"I know there are some that say, you know, the most awful thing you could ever hear is, 'I'm from the government, and I'm here to help.' But this is absolutely a great thing for law enforcement. It's a great thing for our law-abiding citizens. And one day, this will be what replaces fingerprints," Mahoney said.