Automated license plate readers (ALPR) have been around for
some time and the automation technology continues to improve. With automation,
the use by the police department becomes easier and safer. Updates to the data base can be accomplished
with ease. This enables the reader to
recognize the most current information. It
was felt the use of these devices will save lives as well as solve crimes. ALPR has been used to locate vehicles
involved in the distribution of controlled substances, apprehend fugitives with
outstanding arrest warrants, locate stolen vehicles, and identify high-risk
drivers who operate motor vehicles with revoked and suspended licenses.
Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) system utilizes
one internally mounted optical/infra-red camera to collect license plate
information. The information is then
compared with state and national “hot sheets” of wanted vehicles and
individuals.
The vendor, PlateSmart, has their systems being used by the
Minnesota State Patrol. They have recently offered a discount of 40-50% to
improve their use in the Minnesota market.
With the discount offered it makes this technology affordable to the
Breezy Point Police Department. The city
council approved the use of forfeiture funds to purchase a PlateSmart system
for one of the squad cars at a cost of approximately $6,000. With the use of forfeiture funds there is no
impact to the budget or tax levy. This
adds one more tool to the toolbox.
