Kearney Police Department, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — The Kearney Police Department announces the addition of mobile Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) to its fleet of police cars, significantly expanding our capability to prevent and solve crimes in real-time.
This new integration includes 30 Motorola Vigilant M500 Mobile ALPR systems, installed directly in police cruisers, which enable officers to scan license plates while patrolling the city. This technology is being introduced as part of the Assigned Vehicle Program, made possible thanks to a generous donation by a local non-profit foundation.
Since 2022, KPD has effectively utilized 28 mounted Flock Safety ALPR cameras at fixed locations throughout the city and county, proving to be invaluable tools in crime prevention, suspect apprehension, and investigative efforts. Now, with mobile ALPR capabilities, KPD officers can receive real-time information through in-car video systems, helping them identify suspects, track stolen vehicles, and uncover additional evidence of criminal activity directly from their vehicles. In just one day of testing, the system successfully led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle from Broken Bow and revealed evidence connected to additional criminal activities.
ALPR technology helps officers conduct thorough investigations by capturing objective details such as license plates and vehicle descriptions, which are crucial in building strong cases. Additionally, the system alerts officers when a vehicle is linked to missing or endangered individuals, as well as AMBER alerts, which enhances our ability to assist in critical, time-sensitive situations.
To ensure responsible use, KPD has strict policies in place regulating ALPR technology. Every search conducted with ALPR data requires specific justification, is audited regularly to guarantee compliance, and the data is restricted solely to law enforcement use. These cameras are not utilized for minor traffic or parking violations, maintaining a clear focus on serious criminal activity and public safety.
“Since 2022, the Kearney Police Department has been a leader in the ALPR space, with the largest deployment in the state. We have proven the professional, responsible use of this technology has a direct impact on public safety, crime prevention, and crime solving. The addition of mobile ALPR technology will serve to strengthen our capabilities. Thanks to the incredible support of our community, the Kearney Police Department will continue to be on the forefront of effective, responsible use of technology in policing.” – Chief Bryan Waugh
KPD is committed to transparency in ALPR use. Our ALPR Transparency Portal, available on the KPD website, allows the community to understand the purpose and scope of this technology in our policing efforts. The Kearney Police Department submits a quarterly report of ALPR use to the Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice as required by the Automated License Plate Reader Privacy Act.
Additionally, these ALPR cameras are linked with a network of law enforcement agencies nationwide, fostering collaboration that contributes to community safety, locating missing persons, and apprehending suspects involved in criminal behavior.
