TIMMINS - The local police service has added much-talked-about technology to its cruisers, but is mum on further details.
The Timmins Police Service announced today that automatic licence plate readers (ALPR) have been added to its cruisers.
The service sent out the information via email. TimminsToday asked about the cost of the initiative, if it's covered by a grant or through the police levy and how many cruisers are equipped with the technology. No further details have been provided. Communications co-ordinator Michelle St. Louis said it's a busy day with meetings and that the service "should be able to provide more information tomorrow."
The technology automatically reads licence plates, helping officers identify vehicles that may be stolen or linked to criminal activity.
"The addition of ALPR technology is a significant step forward in ensuring the safety of our community. It allows our officers to quickly and efficiently identify vehicles that may pose a risk, helping us take appropriate action while continuing to uphold the highest standards of service and transparency," said Timmins Police Chief Sydney Lecky in the news release.
Deputy Chief Darren Dinel said it enhances safety for the public and officers.
"It enables our officers to be more effective in their day-to-day duties, allowing them to focus their efforts on the issues that matter most to our community. We are committed to using this tool responsibly and in full compliance with privacy laws," he said in the statement.
Nearly two years ago, the OPP northeast region installed the ALPR technology in all of its cruisers.
SEE: Nowhere to hide! All OPP cruisers now have plate recognition
Over a year ago, Timmins Police said it had signed on to a five-year, $202,300 agreement with Axon Public Safety to outfit some cruisers with the technology. At that time, the goal was to install the units by 2024.
Licence plate renewal rules in Ontario changed this year.
All vehicles must still have a valid plate and be insured to be legally driven.
Plates automatically renew annually for passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles under 3,000 kilograms, motorcycles and mopeds if you have valid insurance and no outstanding fines or tolls.
Commercial and business vehicles, motorhomes, vehicles manufactured before 1983, buses and school buses and snowmobiles still need to have their licence plates renewed. All of the details about the new renewal process is available online here.
This story will be updated if more information is provided by Timmins Police.
