LANSING, Mich.(WLNS)— The Lansing Police Department gained a new device to help stop criminals and demonstrated the new device—named the Spike Stinger—Friday afternoon.
Sergeant Michael VanBeek, says the equipment is remote-controlled. The officers can push a button, and the spikes will extend out.
He says the remote is both safer and more efficient than hand-throwing the spikes on the ground as cars speed by.
“Where with these one’s officer can be much further from the roadway. They’re not at any risk of being hit by the car or the pursuit, said VanBeek.
He says many suspects will run red lights and endanger civilians who are driving or walking.
“And then for the public, pull out the spikes and deflating the tires and it’ll bring the car to a stop, and they won’t be able to flee without any working tires to keep the public safe and the pursuit ends,” said VanBeek. “So, they won’t be a danger to the public.”
He says the spikes are already in use, and LPD is the first department in Michigan to use them.