NYPD initiates biometric scanning of suspects

The New York City Police Department (NYPD) confirms it is now scanning and photographing the irises of crime suspects.

An NYPD spokesperson told the Associated Press that the five-second booking procedure should help avoid cases of mistaken identity. 



As such, every suspect will be scanned again via a handheld device before they are arraigned to ensure a positive iris match.

The handheld biometric devices and accompanying cameras carry a steep $23,800 price tag.

A total of 21 systems are slated to be deployed throughout the five boroughs, with devices expected to hit precincts in both Brooklyn and the Bronx over the next few weeks.