The Prescott Valley Police Department will begin installing automated license plate reading cameras within town limits this month.

According to the department, the cameras are connected to a high-speed system that scans license plate numbers and vehicle characteristics and compares them to local, state and national databases of stolen vehicles, wanted suspects or missing persons. The system then sends law enforcement a real-time alert when it finds a match.

The department says the cameras do not capture people or faces, nor can they record video or detect vehicle speed. A search of the system requires justification, and the gathered data is never sold or shared with third parties.

The town obtained the cameras with assistance and funding from the Rocky Mountain Information Network and the state Homeland Security and Emergency Management departments.

Josh Freeman | KAZM News Director | josh@mellowmountainradio.com