Automated License Plate Readers Enhance Victim Restoration

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2012

In 2010, the Sacramento Area was ranked sixth in the nation as a “hot spot” for stolen cars. Auto theft can have a devastating effect on the life of a victim. Vehicles are frequently stolen from lower-income neighborhoods and may be the family’s only source of transportation to work, school and vital services in the community. In response to the vehicle theft crisis, Sacramento County established an automated license plate reader program to reduce vehicle theft and enhance victim restoration. The Sacramento County Probation Department equipped two patrol vehicles with Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology in April 2010. The ALPR cameras automatically check a statewide list of stolen vehicles while officers are in the community during the course of their normal duties, putting more “eyes on the street.” Over 3,000 license plates can be scanned per hour and at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. An ALPR camera is also mounted on a Probation Department Field Office, increasing efficiency and reliability. The longer a car is missing, the greater the impact to the victim. With the introduction of this initiative, stolen cars can be promptly returned to their rightful owner. As of February 7, 2012, 139 cars have been recovered and returned to their owners. In addition, several alleged car thieves have been arrested. Overall, this has been a very successful program for both law enforcement and county residents.