Advanced technology has consistently been deployed in the ongoing war against crime, with automated license plate reading (ALPR) cameras seeming to make a significant impact recently. These cameras, often mounted on patrol cars or stationary structures, are designed to automatically capture and decode license plate numbers, a feature that has radically increased efficiency in law enforcement. Recently, the El Cajon Police Department in California witnessed a string of successful recoveries of stolen vehicles and high-profile arrests, which can be attributed to their adoption of an ALPR program earlier this month.
On September 14, an ALPR alert led officers to a stolen Dodge Durango in the vicinity of Graves and Broadway, resulting in the arrest of 32-year-old Bobby Jenkins of El Cajon for the stolen vehicle and another outstanding warrant for auto theft. A passenger in the car, 23-year-old Carlie Bitticks of Spring Valley, was also taken into custody on drug-related charges, according to the El Cajon Police Department.
A mere two days later, the ALPR system proved its worth yet again, as officers received another alert about a stolen utility trailer. Swift action led to the arrests of 64-year-old Scott Butler and 45-year-old Mary Brewster, both of El Cajon, for being in possession of the stolen trailer, as well as methamphetamine.
The ALPR alerts continued to assist officers in their endeavors, with the recovery of a stolen 2004 Infiniti G35 on September 17. Additionally, the next day an eventful pursuit and ultimate apprehension of 31-year-old San Diego resident Angel Morales unraveled, as officers attempted to stop a stolen 2004 Volvo S60 flagged by the ALPR system. Morales, who had abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot to a nearby apartment, was eventually located and arrested after an SDSO helicopter assisted in the search and officers successfully persuaded him to surrender. Morales now faces several charges, including a separate auto theft warrant.
The El Cajon Police Department urges members of the public with any additional information regarding these incidents to contact them directly at (619) 579-3311. For those wishing to remain anonymous, the Crime Stoppers tip line can be reached at (888) 580-8477.
