By C1 Staff
MERCED, Calif. — Merced County is increasing security at its jails through the use of a body scanner and a video visitation system.
The first ever body scanner will be purchased at the price tag of $250,000, approved by the board of supervisors, and will be located at the main jail in Downton Merced, according to ABC News.
The sheriff’s office is also working to add video visitation to its other facility.
The body scanner s advertised as a low dose x-ray scanning system that can detect drugs, weapons and much more without revealing skin surface to protect privacy.
Video visitation is currently being added to the John Latorraca Correctional Center; each dorm will have its own screen and loved ones can speak with inmates from a public area at the jail or pay a fee to call from home.
The equipment comes at no cost to the county as the communications provider will take a percentage of its revenue.
One supervisor did raise concerns about the lack of in person visitation for those who have not yet been convicted or have special family circumstances; those will still be a possibility.