The Guam Police Department has revitalized its digital fingerprint system for firearms identification cards through Thales’ biometric technology, enhancing security and efficiency. A contract worth over $305,000 was awarded to Thales to maintain the system. Applicants must adhere to specific documentation requirements and undergo a $34 fingerprint background check, utilizing LiveScan software for high-quality identification.
The Guam Police Department (GPD) has successfully revived its digital fingerprint system responsible for issuing firearms identification cards, thanks to the integration of biometric technology from Thales. This re-implementation aims to enhance the efficiency and security of the firearm registration process in Guam. After experiencing operational disruptions in August, the GPD collaborated with an external vendor for support. Following this, on August 8, 2024, a contract was awarded to Thales by the Guam Department of Administration. This one-year contract includes provisions for maintaining the existing Cogent Automated Fingerprint Identification System (CAFIS) and supporting software, with the potential for extensions worth over $305,000 if all renewal options are exercised. The modernized digital fingerprint system streamlines the process for acquiring firearms ID cards. Prospective applicants must complete an application form, ensuring they are U.S. citizens and provide proper documentation, which includes a certified birth certificate alongside photo ID and a social security card, or a valid U.S. passport with a social security card, or a naturalization certificate with a social security card. As stated in the GPD’s FAQs, applicants renewing or applying for firearms permits must undergo fingerprinting as part of a comprehensive background check, with a processing cost of $34. The GPD employs biometric fingerprinting technology, specifically the advanced LiveScan software, developed by Thales. This solution captures high-quality digital fingerprints for precise identification, offering real-time fingerprint capture and verification and reducing the likelihood of manual errors. The LiveScan system is designed according to FBI standards, ensuring compliance with federal regulations regarding fingerprint capture.
The revival of the digital fingerprint system by the Guam Police Department is essential in the context of public safety and firearm regulation. Biometric identification systems, particularly fingerprint biometrics, are increasingly used in law enforcement to enhance security and improve the background check process associated with firearm permits. The integration of the new system also signifies the importance of using advanced technology, such as the LiveScan software provided by Thales, which automates and streamlines the fingerprinting process, improving the accuracy and efficiency of identification.
In conclusion, the Guam Police Department’s restoration of its digital fingerprint system represents a significant advancement in its firearms permitting process, largely facilitated by Thales’ biometric technology. The contract awarded underscores the GPD’s commitment to security and efficiency, while the implementation of LiveScan enhances identification accuracy, mitigating manual errors. The overall impact of these upgrades will likely improve public confidence in gun ownership regulations on the island.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
