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Antioch Schools Screen For Sexual Predators

WBBM 780 - Chicago's #1 source for local news, traffic and weather
Posted: Tuesday, 31 July 2007 9:28AM

ANTIOCH, Ill. (STNG) -- With the swipe of a driver's license a new electronic ID system at Antioch District 34 schools can determine whether a visitor is a sexual predator.

School officials have purchased software that scans a visitor's identification for potential problems. The Raptor system is being used across the United States.

Superintendent Scott Thompson said the system provides an instant filter against sexual offenders and others who aren't allowed near children. The system will be installed at all District 34 schools.

"It takes the safety and accountability factor up one notch by letting us know immediately if the visitor is a predator," Thompson said.

The V-soft identification system, developed by Raptor Technologies of Houston, uses software to screen driver's licenses or state identification cards against sexual offender databases from 42 states.

If no match is found, the optical reader captures data from the license, including the photograph, and prints it on a visitor badge. The card also lists the date and time of the visit, making it harder to reuse.

"This new system meets our needs," said Vicky Cullinan, associate superintendent for business and auxiliary services. "I think it's a win-win situation for the district and parents."

High School District 117 and Emmons School District both use V-soft in all their facilities.

Thompson said the system would initially cost about $1,800 per unit, with an annual cost thereafter of $450 to update the software and provide maintenance. "For what it provides you, it's really cost-effective," Thompson said.