Sticky GPS Bombs That Cops Use To Track Cars – Science Fiction or Science Fact?

The criminal justice, private investigation, and skip trace/bounty hunter industries have a long and storied tradition, as do the people that populate them. If someone or some thing is lost or hiding, they find it. As the Pinkertons used to say, they always get their man (or woman).

While that ethos still rings as true today as it ever has in the world of law enforcement, the methods of tracking have changed. Perhaps one of the best (and coolest) examples of this new tracking technology is called the StarChase System.

What’s A StarChase System?

Even though the StarChase system is a very real and practical tool in the arsenals of many law enforcement (and related fields) teams, it’s also true that it’s like something straight out of a James Bond movie, and that it serves the same sort of function.

To put it succinctly, the StarChase System is a non-lethal, vehicular-mounted pursuit and apprehension aid commonly used by law enforcement and related professionals. It uses a launching system to fire adhesive GPS tags to subject property (usually vehicles), typically during a high-speed chase. The officers can then back off and end the chase while tracking the subject using a computer-integrated GPS tracking system.

How does the StarChase system work?

• The launching mechanism is placed behind the grille of whatever vehicle(s) it is to be mounted on. Once a target is being pursued, compressed air launches an adhesive projectile which contains a GPS tag. It is worth noting that the adhesive used works equally well on all frames and materials – the glue they use is very strong stuff.
• Assuming positive contact has been made with the target vehicle, the GPS tag will begin transmitting movement information to the pursuing vehicle(s). This is done through a web-based solution which requires no special software.
• At this point, it’s simply a matter of pursuit and capture. The officer can end the chase, preserve the safety of the public, and meet the suspect right after they come to a complete stop.
• As you can see, the StarChase system is a vast improvement over traditional means. The system drastically reduces risk factors to all parties – the police, the suspect, and the public. Not only are chases ended more quickly, but the device reduces the chances of a violent confrontation prior to capture, and often times tracking a suspect back to his or her home or “hideout” results in the capture of additional suspects.

After seeing what the StarChase system is all about, it goes without saying that it’s a revolution in criminal justice technology.