LAS VEGAS: Google is expanding their search capabilities by entering into a partnership with Nevada police to perform routine house searches of suspected criminals.

From August 1st Google will use advanced “search-bots” to physically enter every home, store and business in Las Vegas. The bots would be sent out in the dead of night and stealthily categorise the contents of each property using photographic, and video equipment.

In future, when Nevada Police wish to search the contents of a home, they merely need to acquire a search warrant from a judge (also available online), then enter the property's location in a special Google search page. Police would then be able to search video, images and text items taken from the contents of the property.

The location of each item would also be easily viewed at the property from within Google Earth.

The announcement was made a joint-press conference held at the Las Vegas Police Department. Google spokesperson Hugh Macey refused to comment on whether the bots could be used to trace goods that have previously been reported stolen, or if the search data could only be used after Police have successfully obtained a search warrant.

The Google share price rose 45 cents after the announcement to close on $507.90. More details about the programme can be found at police.google.com.