Sussex Police is using the latest computer technology to tackle the problem of alcohol-fuelled violence as new police powers come into effect.

The force has installed the InnKeeper software system to streamline the administration of liquor licensing and reduce paperwork and routine tasks. The system also includes a powerful intelligence capability that provides up-to-date information on alcohol-related crime.

This means that as well as assisting police with licensing applications from pubs, clubs and other businesses, InnKeeper will enable officers to identify problem premises and patterns of disorder much more quickly.

All information related to licensed premises - including incidents of alcohol-related violence and disorder and visits by police, under-age drinking and other breaches of licensing conditions - is recorded on InnKeeper. Having such information instantly available will be crucial when police want to oppose licensing applications.

Developed by WPC Software, InnKeeper has been successfully piloted in Brighton and Hove and will now be used force-wide by Sussex Police.

Jean Irving, Force Licensing Manager at Sussex Police, said: “Previously, all licensing information was held in paper files and on PCs which made it difficult and time-consuming to extract the information we needed.

“InnKeeper now gives us instant access to information about licensed premises and previous incidents that have occurred. This means that officers will have a much clearer idea of the likely situation facing them when they are sent to a pub or club.”

She added: “They can also print off information about problem premises and confront licensees with the evidence. This will help us to create a safer environment for people who simply want to enjoy a trouble-free night out in Sussex.”