TECHNOLOGY is transforming the fight against crime.

Cheshire Police has given new Microsoft tablets to 1,675 officers to enable them to work more flexibly.

The devices have been supplied to response officers, beat bobbies, street triage officers, CID, police community support officers, specialist units and inspectors.

Supt Matt Welsted, who is leading the digital policing programme, said: “Officers can now spend more time out on the streets whilst also doing some of the many other tasks required of them.

“The digital world is a tremendously fast-moving area but the move to Windows 10 tablets puts us in a great place both now and in the future.

“It will underpin our position as an outstanding police force.

The tablets enable officers to capture digital evidence and upload statements without having to head back to the station.

This helps to speed up investigations and improves the quality of evidence gathered whilst helping officers do more with their time and spend more time working out in communities.

Police and crime commissioner David Keane said: “The full roll out of the tablets is a positive step in ensuring we have a police service fit for the future and illustrates investment in technology that supports our officers in the community.

“The tablets will support the efficiency and effectiveness of our police service.

“I will be monitoring how our investment in new ways of working is allowing officers to spend more time in and connect to our local communities.”

PC Pete Cole, the business ambassador who has been leading the project, said: “The feedback we are getting to the tablets is hugely positive.

“There are lots of stories being fed back about how much time officers are saving and how they are able to work in different locations and gain instant access to important information right when and where they need it.”