Gastonia's Police Department is stepping into the future of law enforcement with the launch of its new Real Time Crime Center (RTCC). Pulling from a diverse pool of funding sources, the RTCC is powered by $963,000 from a federal COPS Grant, along with $120,000 in ARPA funds, and an additional $100,000 from the City of Gastonia’s General Fund. Operating costs are estimated to hover around $641,000 annually, a figure that underscores the depth of investment in public safety.
The center is part of a broader initiative reaching over 5,000 law enforcement agencies across the United States, creating a tapestry of camera partnerships that includes large retail chains such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ulta Beauty, and Target. Within Gastonia, the surveillance network includes 21 Flock License Plate Readers, 22 live cameras, and an extensive array of 144 downtown surveillance cameras. In line with legal guidelines, recorded video is kept for 30 days, unless tied to an ongoing investigation or prosecution.
In a statement obtained by the Gastonia Police Department's official release, Police Chief Trent Conard drove home the significance of the RTCC: "The Real Time Crime Center is a game-changer for Gastonia. By integrating cutting-edge technology with real-time data, we are giving our officers the tools they need to prevent crime, respond faster, and ultimately make our community safer. This investment shows our city’s commitment to protecting both people and property."
Amid the technical fanfare, Gastonia is also setting the stage for its first drone responder – a forward leap planned for January 2026. This drone will be kitted out with license plate recognition and live video streaming capabilities, adding another layer to the city's public safety infrastructure. Initially, four full-time staff members will man the RTCC, with capacity predicted to triple as the operation scales. Flock camera technology, which has aided in the recovery of more than 1,000 missing individuals nationwide, exemplifies the practical benefits such advancements offer.
The RTCC reflects a contemporary evolution in policing tactics, focusing on preemptive action and swift response enabled by technological advancements. Gastonia's commitment to integrating these tools is a significant move toward fortifying community trust and ensuring a safer environment for its citizens.
