Lassen County is stepping up its fight against crime with the installation of high-tech license plate reading cameras, designed to help authorities quickly identify stolen and suspect vehicles.
Thirteen cameras will be installed at strategic locations across the county, as identified by the Sheriff’s Office, according to Lassen Cal OES Chief Silas Rojas.
Funded for the next two years by a Homeland Security grant, the program may be extended if deemed effective, with the Sheriff’s Office budgeting for future use. A detective sergeant will manage the system, which is designed to require minimal additional effort from staff. The system can add specific license plates to a watchlist but does not use facial recognition technology or track individuals.
The cameras, operated by the third-party company Flock, will not burden the county with maintenance or repair responsibilities. They can capture license plates, vehicle shapes, and colors. When a suspect vehicle passes, a still image is taken, along with the vehicle’s location, date, and time, which is automatically sent to law enforcement. The system will also connect with statewide cameras operated by Flock. Washoe and Modoc counties already use this system, and other neighboring counties are in discussions to adopt it.
Sheriff McGarva reassured the public that the cameras will not be aimed at homes and do not record live video—only still images of vehicle rears. This new tool aims to enhance public safety and improve vehicle tracking across Lassen County.
Image of Flock Group LPD (License Plate Reading) camera