LANCASHIRE Constabulary has stepped-up its fight against car crime by adopting the latest technology from America.

The Stinger - a hollow spike tyre deflation system - was unveiled by the force this week at their headquarters in Hutton.

Originated in the USA, the system will be used by police to stop criminals in their tracks if they refuse to co-operate with officers.

It consists of a lightweight plastic frame with small hollow metal spikes held in sockets. Once the spikes are crossed, the tyres gradually deflate forcing the vehicle to stop.

Stinger has been rigorously tested by the constabulary and is being hailed as a potent weapon in the war against auto crime.

Assistant Chief Constable David Smith said: "Here in Lancashire we are committed to reducing auto crime which is costly and can also be dangerous to the public."

"There is always a serious risk to individuals and police officers when criminals in vehicles attempt to avoid arrest. By deploying Stinger in such situations we can eliminate some of those risks by bringing the pursued vehicle to a stop in a controlled and moderate way."

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