The Willcox Police Department in Arizona recently received a $1.37 million grant from the Department of Emergency and Military Affairs to enhance their technology. With only 11 officers on staff, the department recognized the need for additional surveillance tools to monitor criminal activity passing through the city.
Police Chief Dale Hadfield stated that the funds were used to purchase license plate cameras, radios, computers, and vehicles. The new radios purchased with the grant money will enable better communication with law enforcement agencies across the state, while new vehicles including canine units and a faster car for pursuits were also purchased to enhance the department’s capabilities.
The license plate cameras were strategically placed throughout the city near entry and exit points and capture images of vehicles passing by. While they do not operate continuously, if a license plate captured by the cameras matches one in an open police report, law enforcement will be alerted. According to Hadfield, these cameras are not meant to prevent crimes but rather serve as an investigative tool to help solve crimes after they occur.
Reporter Alexis Ramanjulu covers news in Cochise County for KGUN 9 and has a background in journalism from her time at the Herald/Review in Sierra Vista. For story ideas or tips, you can contact Alexis by email at [alexis.ramanjulu@kgun9.com](mailto:alexis.ramanjulu@kgun9.com) or connect with her on Facebook.
