Revamping Smuggling Detection: How the Willcox Police Department Enhanced Their Tech to Tackle Border Crime

The Willcox Police Department in Arizona recently received $1.37 million from the Department of Emergency and Military Affairs to enhance their technology in order to combat smuggling activities from the southern border. Police Chief Dale Hadfield stated that the funds were used to purchase license plate cameras, radios, computers, and vehicles to upgrade their capabilities. The department identified the need for improved technology due to the fact that their streets are frequently used by smugglers for illegal activities involving both migrants and drugs.

According to Hadfield, the newly acquired license plate cameras are strategically placed throughout the city near entry and exit points. While the cameras are not actively monitored all the time, law enforcement is notified when a captured license plate matches one in an open police report. This allows for the cameras to serve as a post-incident investigation tool rather than a means of preventing crimes. Hadfield emphasized that the cameras significantly increase the chances of identifying suspects and provide valuable leads for detectives.

The technology upgrade also included