Derbyshire Constabulary is using new technology to tackle knife crime and protect local residents.

Officers in A Division, which covers Amber Valley and Erewash, have recently invested in two portable metal arches to be used throughout the area.
 
The arches are weatherproof and have a long battery life, meaning that they can be used at outdoor events. They have LED lights on the side to show whereabouts on the body the metal has been detected and the level of sensitivity can be adjusted to suit the particular situation.
 
The portable arches join A Division's two static detection arches, which are the same specification as the gates used in airports.
 
The arches will be used throughout Operation Relentless, a forcewide initiative to target alcohol related disorder and domestic abuse.
 
The officer in charge of local policing for Ilkeston, Inspector Pete Szabo, said: "The search gates have been used at various locations around the area and have been a big success. In some areas of the country knife crime is a big problem and we want to make sure that doesn't happen in Derbyshire. I hope that by using the gates and publicising this fact some people will think twice about their own behaviour.
 
"There is no excuse for carrying around any weapon that can cause severe injuries or even a fatality. What might seem like a cool fashion accessory doesn't look quite as appealing if it ends up in you being arrested, charged and facing a hefty fine or even a prison sentence.
 
"Come into the area and have a great night out, but keep it a safe night out, for you and everyone else."
 
One of the new metal arches was recently used in Ripley town centre. Sergeant Darren Muggleton said: "Members of the public told us that they were happy that the gates were there and that they felt safer knowing everyone had been checked for dangerous weapons."
 
The new gates will be deployed throughout Alfreton and Ripley. The static gates are currently being used in Ilkeston and Long Eaton.