The Columbus Police Department recently received a $5,000 grant from the North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program for the purchase of a LIDAR speed measuring unit as well as two Alcosensor FSTs, a roadside alcohol screening test device.
All Columbus Police Department officers are currently trained and certified on the Alcosensor FST and three officers are trained and certified on the LIDAR, with the remaining officers scheduled to complete certification soon.
The LIDAR, which uses a laser beam to measure speed, is the latest advancement in speed measuring technology. It is the most precise instrument, giving the officer an instantaneous speed measurement, rendering radar/laser detectors virtually useless.
In addition to speed measurement and traffic enforcement, the Columbus Police Department will be able to use the LIDAR for taking measurements in crime and motor vehicle collision scenes, greatly assisting in these investigations.
Speeding is the leading cause of traffic collisions and driving while impaired is the most deadly and costly crime committed in the United States.
Columbus police officials said the acquisition of the LIDAR and additional Alcosensor FSTs from the North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program with greatly assist the Columbus Police Department in keeping area roadways safe.
– article submitted