New Berkeley License Plate Readers Credited For 12 Arrests

BERKELEY, CA — A trial run for Berkeley's new system of automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras has led investigators to make 12 arrests and recover nine stolen vehicles, according to police.

The City Council approved the installation of 52 ALPR cameras around the city last July, and the police department kicked off the trial period for the system in October.

"During this time, the technology helped officers identify suspects, recover stolen property, and resolve cases that might have stalled," police said Thursday. "For example, the system tracked a suspect's vehicle linked to burglaries at multiple locations. When the vehicle returned to Berkeley weeks later, officers arrested the driver and recovered stolen items."

As of Thursday, police said the entire department had access to the ALPR system as an "additional tool to support public safety efforts." Officials said 32 cameras are now online, with the remaining 20 awaiting final permitting through Caltrans.