In an attempt to increase crime-fighting efforts, license plate scanners are coming to four Philadelphia-area bridges. According to the Delaware Port Authority, the scanners will aid in counterterrorism. Additionally, criminal investigations, including missing persons and ambler alerts, will also use the technology for assistance.
License Plate Scanners
Every year, over 100 million vehicles cross the Delaware River Port Authority’s four bridges linking New Jersey with Philadelphia.
With the installation of this new technology, police will now know the license plate numbers of all of them.
Last month, The Delaware River Port Authority moved to enter a 10-year agreement with the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, the Division of the New Jersey State Police, for the installation of automated license plate readers to be installed on four Philadelphia-area bridges.
These bridges are the Ben Franklin, Walt Whitman, Commodore Barry, and Betsy Ross bridges.
Port authority officials have confirmed to media outlets the technology will aid in car thefts, counterterrorism efforts, amber alerts, missing persons cases, along with crime detection and prevention.
What Are They Looking For?
Indeed, law-abiding safety is paramount while driving. However, the DRPA contends drivers with smaller offenses will not be tracked down. Specifically, the scanners aren’t looking for the speeding cars or the drivers who blow toll fees.
Instead, they will be searching for license plates linked to more serious crimes or investigations both for local and national purposes.
When Will They Be Installed?
Some reports claim the new license plate scanners will be operational as early as summer.
However, what is for certain is that they are definitely coming to the four local bridges.
Important to note, once in place, the New Jersey State Police will maintain and operate the system.