Breathalysers and speed guns (FOI)

​Request

Under the Freedom of Information, I would like to make the following requests.

In relation to the police, I would like the following information:

A

How many so called speed guns they have?

B

The user’s guide / instruction Manuel for these devices.

C

How many so called breathalysers the police have?

D

The user’s guide / instruction manual for these devices.

E

I would also like a cover letter explaining what these devices are called also their brand name

Response

A and C

This information is qualified exempt under Article 42 of the Freedom of Information Jersey (Law) 2011 and the information is refused. The States of Jersey Police do not give out operational information that could compromise its capabilities.

B and D

This information is absolutely exempt under Article 23 of the Freedom of Information Jersey (Law) 2011 as the information available to the applicant by other means at the following websites:

Kustom Signals Inc

Laser Technology Inc

Lion Laboratories Limited

E

The speed guns are provided by Lasertech and the breathalysers are provided by Lion. The respective websites are shown above in response to requests B and D.

Exemptions applied to this request

Article 23 – Information accessible to applicant by other means

(1) Information is absolutely exempt information if it is reasonably available to the applicant, otherwise than under this law, whether or not free of charge.

Article 42 – Law enforcement

Information is qualified exempt information if its disclosure would, or would be likely to, prejudice-

(a) The prevention or detection of crime, whether in Jersey or elsewhere;

(b) The apprehension or prosecution of offender, whether in respect of offences committed in Jersey or elsewhere;

Public interest test

Whilst it will always be in the public interest to ensure public authorities spend public money wisely, and authorities such as the police have sufficient equipment to carry out their duties effectively, the provision of specific information could assist those intent on evading prosecution for certain offences.

The States of Jersey Police are subject to States budgetary constriction and must conform to guidelines on purchasing equipment, ensuring value for money and cost efficiencies. Equipment purchased is always to the standard required by the UK National Police Chiefs Council and quantities will be determined by the perceived need and the budget available.