Sub aids cops in underwater searches

By PoliceOne Staff

PORT NECHES, Texas — Police used a remote-controlled submarine to help in a recent missing persons search in a South Texas river.

Officers called in a Video Ray submersible device that can send real-time footage back to authorities, KIII TV reported.  From the ground, a control board the size of a suitcase guides the machine, which is attached by a tether.

Control an 8-pound submarine from dry ground, using a command board the size of suitcase. Video is transmitted in real time. (Video Ray Image)

The VideoRay Pro 3 GTO includes a wide-angle camera illuminated with Halogen lamps. The NYPD has used similar models to sweep for explosives underwater.

Using the eight-pound unit is “similar to operating a video game,” according to the company’s website. No special training is required to work the controls, which adjust camera focus, tilt and depth.