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The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office announced that the agency will be installing automated license plate reading (ALPR) cameras in strategic areas around the county to solve and prevent crime.
“ALPR cameras help law enforcement investigate crime by providing objective evidence of license plates and vehicle characteristics,” officials said.
The cameras are built by Flock Safety, a public safety technology company that “helps neighborhoods, communities, and law enforcement work together to fight crime.”
Once active, the cameras can send a real-time alert to law enforcement when a stolen car or known wanted suspect from a state or national crime database enters the county.
They can also send alerts if a vehicle associated with a missing person in an AMBER or Silver Alert is detected.
“The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office will maintain policy around the usage of the LPR system,” Sheriff Mike Evans stated. “Each search requires a justification, and the data is never sold or shared with third parties.
“The cameras will be used to solve and reduce property and violent crime and are not intended for minor traffic violations,” he added. “Although Calvert County is a safe place, this pilot program will allow us to better serve and protect the citizens of Calvert County by using technology to fight crime.”
Officials noted that similar cameras are used in more than 2,000 cities across 40 states, and that law enforcement agencies have reported crime reduction of up to 7the 0 percent when the LPR devices were installed in communities.
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