Conference shows futuristic gadgets to fight crime

SAN DIEGO (WHDH) -- Law enforcement leaders from around the world were in San Diego this week. Attendees got a look at some of the newest gadgets for catching criminals.

The expo is part of the International Associated of Chiefs of Police conference. Members of law enforcement got a chance to see futuristic squad cars that have infrared cameras and biological weapon sensors.

“The officers are beginning to be displaced out of their vehicles by the technology and if you look our vehicle, we’ve integrated all of that so that the officer sits comfortably,” said Stacy Stephens of Carbon Motor Corp.

Officers got the chance to test their skills -- a device called the body guard. It has a laser pointer, video camera, flashlight and 750,000 volts of electricity.

“Our designer was really the guy who produced and designed most of the products that we use like in movies like ‘Iron Man,’ he’s done a number of different things for movies,” said one man.

Some call it a toy store for police officers, but the gadgets mean business.

An unmanned aircraft, made by Hoverfly, allows police to follow suspects, get a close view of the scene, and alert 911 while keeping officers out of harm’s way.

“This is one of those technologies it also reduces the cost for the department to provide air support,” said Al Ducharme, the CEO of Hoverfly.

The conference allows companies to interact with the people who will be using the gadgets.

“Well the IACP conference is the only place where I can come and meet with thousands of police chiefs from around the world, understand their needs strategically and share with them our latest technology,” said the CEO of Tazer, Rick Smith.