The Danville Police Department recently adopted new technology to assist in the pursuit and prosecution of criminals who commit technology-related crimes.

Chief Daniel J. Weckesser of the Danville Police said in a press release that the equipment cost more than $11,000 and was purchased using funds from the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The task force is a collaboration of multiple law enforcement departments across Ohio tasked with identifying, arresting and prosecuting individuals who use the internet to prey on minors.

“This equipment is going to be an integral part of combating a new type of crime in society that is going to only get worse,” Detective John Bartolucci said.

The new equipment includes a computer, software and related equipment specially designed to be able to investigate and handle sensitive digital evidence, as well as forensically examine computers and mobile devices.

“Our area has had access to some of this type of equipment through the Mount Vernon Police Department, but now we will have more capabilities and it will be more widespread and available with faster processing times and case turnaround," Weckesser said.

Danville is not the only town that will benefit from the new equipment.

"It's a resource for all of our area agencies," Bartolucci said. "As part of the federal task forces, I am assigned to all of southern Ohio and we will assist any agency that needs help during an investigation, whether it's a phone call for technical assistance or on-scene assistance in collecting or processing digital evidence; whatever is needed to help combat the issue and bring offenders to justice, especially if they are exploiting or abusing children."

Individuals with information on technology-related crimes are encouraged to report them to their local law enforcement agency or to the FBI's Internet Crimes unit at ic3.gov.

For more information on how to protect yourself and children on the internet, visit FTC.gov and OhioICAC.org.