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.
