Gov. Ivey Awards $50K Grant to Boost Crime-Fighting Technology in Washington County

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has announced a grant of nearly $50,000 to help the Washington County Sheriff’s Office strengthen its crime-fighting capabilities through advanced technology.

The grant, awarded to the Washington County Commission, will be used to purchase four license plate reader (LPR) cameras. These high-tech cameras will be installed on patrol vehicles operated by the Sheriff’s Office. The devices automatically capture and process license plate data, cross-checking it against databases for stolen vehicles, active warrants, and other law enforcement alerts.

“This technology is especially helpful in rural counties where a limited number of sheriff’s deputies are tasked with patrolling and protecting a large area,” said Gov. Ivey in a public statement. “I am pleased to make these funds available to improve crimefighting capabilities in Washington County.”

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is managing the grant through funding provided by the U.S. Department of Justice. ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell emphasized the positive impact the equipment will have on community safety.

“These funds will allow sheriff’s deputies to spend more time on proactive measures to keep the community safe,” Boswell said. “ADECA joins Gov. Ivey in support of this effort to reduce crime.”

LPR systems have become a growing tool for law enforcement across the country, especially in rural areas where manpower is stretched thin. By automating the identification process, deputies can respond more quickly to potential threats and focus on patrol duties rather than manual checks.

While Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) are among the most common types of surveillance technologies currently deployed, critics have pointed out that their emplacement and use raises significant privacy concerns. APLR videos and data have been reported as being leaked, Others have questioned not only the security of LPR data but the transparency and accountability of those with access to that data. Another concern is the violation of 4th Amendment protections against warrantless search, but to date the courts have turned back these challenges.

This grant follows the recent award of two separate grant packages to support law enforcement in South Alabama and Jefferson County. Some of those monies were earmarked for ALPRs, as well.

In addition to law enforcement programs, ADECA oversees initiatives related to economic development, energy conservation, public recreation, and water resource management.