Tek84 Scanner: $138,000 Scanner — But It’s Not Being Used

Taxpayers were told the new Johnston County Detention Center had a $138,000 Tek 84 scanner to stop drugs and weapons from getting inside. What the Tek 84 Intercept Scanner Is:

The Tek 84 Intercept is a full‑body X‑ray screening system designed for jails and detention facilities to detect contraband. It uses low‑dose transmission X‑ray technology—much lower than a standard medical X‑ray—to scan from below the feet to above the head. The system detects both metallic and non‑metallic threats, including weapons, drugs, cell phones, and items concealed under clothing or internally. A full scan takes about 3.8 seconds, allowing rapid and thorough screening. When used properly, it significantly reduces the chance of contraband entering a detention center.

Because the Tek 84 Intercept is designed to detect items traditional searches and metal detectors often miss, its consistent use is critical for preventing overdoses, violence, and other dangerous incidents inside a jail.

Along with scanner information, overdose incident records from the jail were also requested. But here’s the reality:

    •   The Sheriff’s Office admits the scanner has never been used because they do not have the staffing to operate it.

• The staffing shortage is the direct result of poor recruiting and retention within the Sheriff’s Office.

• When asked for policies, usage records, scanner cost, and overdose incidents, the office said no records could be provided (except for 2 overdoses).

• Yet, leadership told WRAL the exact $138,000 price tag during a tour of the detention center.

  
  

What Was Released:

• October 24, 2023 – Overdose

• November 22, 2024 – Overdose

What 9-1-1 Records Show:

• May 5, 2024 – Overdose

• November 22, 2024 – Overdose involving an inmate and a Detention Officer (accidental exposure)

• January 1, 2025 – Self-inflicted stabbing

• January 25, 2025 – Overdose

• February 20, 2025 – Overdose

The Bottom Line:

• Official disclosure: 2 overdoses.

• 911 records: at least 4 more serious incidents.

• The scanner has never been used because of staffing shortages caused by poor recruiting and retention.

• Meanwhile, overdoses and emergencies continue inside the jail.

  
  

This isn’t a failure of technology. It’s a failure of leadership, accountability, and transparency.

Randy Ackley,

GOP Candidate for Sheriff