Driverless police car could help prosecute criminals on their way to jail – and even take payment for fines

A POLICE car of the future could help prosecute criminals on their way to jail.

A patent filed in the USA by Motorola revealed plans for a driverless cop car that could act as a mobile courtroom.

Labelled the "mobile law enforcement communication system", the patent shows an autonomous vehicle able to scan and identify criminals.

Working with police forces after an arrest has been made, the system would be able to search crooks for weapons or illegal items, and perform tests to see if they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The motor would then act like a courtroom on wheels, with the perpetrator able to contact their lawyer via conference call.

If necessary, the car would also be able to contact a judge to issue a search warrant for the suspect's property to assist with the prosecution process.

The patent also includes a payment system, which would allow less serious matters like speeding fines to be paid on the spot.

The concept is designed to take the pressure off law enforcement agencies when dealing with minor crimes and help speed up the prosecution process.

Officially granted in August this year, the patent reads: ";By performing law enforcement processes and proceedings within a vehicular environment, an officer is able to remain in the field, thereby advantageously preserving law enforcement resources.

"The ability to have search warrants approved while the detainee is located in the vehicle saves considerable time and minimises disruption in preserving evidence."

In January, we reported on a robot police car being developed by Ford to help hunt down speeding drivers.