Ontario Government Funding Peterborough Police Over $230,000 To Fight Auto Theft in Peterborough and Lakefield

The Ontario Government has provided $232,449 to the Peterborough Police Service to fight crime, including auto theft in Peterborough and Lakefield announced on Monday.

Photo by Samantha Bianco.

Police are using the funds to acquire Licence Plate Recognition (ALPR) technology – a system using cameras that automatically scan licence plates. The system is installed on active-duty police cruisers and alerts officers to stolen or expired plates or plates registered to suspended drivers. The system can also notify officers of missing and wanted persons and vehicles associated with AMBER alerts.

“Investing in the latest technology strengthens the ability of the Peterborough Police to fight crime on our streets. Officers can quickly and more efficiently identify and act against individuals driving illegally, prevent auto theft, and keep our streets safe,” said MPP Dave Smith. “Automated Licence Plate Recognition Technology is yet another tool we’ve equipped our police service with to reduce crime in our community.”

In May, the Onvatio Government funded just under $3 million over three years to strengthen and expand the Peterborough Police Services’ Special Victims Unit. This funding enabled advanced training for officers, improve data collection and hired a major crimes investigator. A $185,505 grant was given to police to purchase and install CCTV technology to improve efforts to combat gun and gang violence in downtown Peterborough.

The Automated Licence Plate Recognition Technology Grant is a one-time grant to help police services strengthen roadside law enforcement efforts and improve public safety across the province.

“This investment further demonstrates our government’s plan to ensure police services across Ontario have the resources and equipment they need to keep our communities safe,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “I am confident that this tool will be a tremendous asset to police services and help them combat incidents of auto theft and enhance public safety.”

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