McAlester Police Department gets new fingerprint machine with grant funds

A new fingerprint machine was installed at the City of McAlester Police Department that will digitize the process and provide vital upgrades.

Acquisition of the fingerprint machine was made possible with grant funding through the Oklahoma District Attorneys Council (ODAC). The grant funds totaled $19,370 from FY2023 on a grant that aims to enhance law enforcement capabilities and improve overall public safety.

"The acquisition of this state-of-the-art fingerprint machine marks a significant milestone for the McAlester Police Department,” Police Chief Kevin Hearod said. “We are grateful for the grant funding from the Oklahoma District Attorneys Council because it helps us to better serve and protect people in McAlester."

This grant is administered through ODAC and originates from National Criminal History Improvement Program-Supplemental Funding. Those funds are provided by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, Office of Justice Programs, and the U.S. Department of Justice.

A pivotal component of the grant application was the inclusion of the Livescan, a cutting-edge fingerprint machine renowned for its accuracy and efficiency. This specialized equipment will enable MPD to streamline fingerprinting processes and expedite investigations.

MPD is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of the residents of McAlester through proactive law enforcement initiatives, community engagement, and partnerships with local organizations. Committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, the department strives to foster trust and collaboration within the community it serves. Investigators and staff will receive additional training soon to complete the transition to the new fingerprinting machine.