Infrared or thermal imaging systems are currently in use, and have been since the 1980's, by hundreds of major law enforcement agencies throughout the United States and recently Canada. U.S. Federal law enforcement agencies have employed the technology vigorously since the early 1970's, mainly in a surveillance role. Recent design advances have made thermal imagers more portable, and easier to maintain and operate. Also, coupled with the increased need for specialized investigative surveillance capability, particularly in the area of drug intervention, the technology has vastly expanded its applications within the law enforcement community. Manufacturers are producing thermal imagers that are less expensive and easier to obtain by smaller law enforcement agencies through grants and asset seizure funding.
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