Potter County approves License Plate Reader installation to enhance public safety

The Potter County Commissioners' Court unanimously voted to approve an interlocal agreement allowing the Potter County Sheriff's Office to have License Plate Readers (LPRs) installed as part of a coordinated effort with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). This initiative aims to bolster public safety by enabling nearly instantaneous nationwide tracking of vehicles linked to criminal activity.

TxDOT's effort to place these readers across the Texas Panhandle allows law enforcement agencies nationwide to access the data.

During the meeting, Potter County Sheriff Brian Thomas discussed the benefits of the LPR system, which enables police to receive real-time notifications if a stolen vehicle, initially reported within the Panhandle, is spotted anywhere in the country, including distant locations such as New York. The new system is being implemented across several counties and is expected to significantly enhance the region's law enforcement capabilities.

The LPRs will be strategically placed at eight undisclosed locations throughout the area. These locations have been carefully selected to maximize coverage while maintaining operational security.

"This system is a game-changer for our law enforcement agencies," Thomas said. "It will provide us with immediate access to data that can be crucial in solving cases and tracking down stolen vehicles."

Commissioners greatly supported that the project is not expected to incur any costs to the county.

An updated interlocal agreement between the Potter County Sheriff’s Office and River Road and Bushland Independent School Districts was also approved.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Potter County approves License Plate Reader installation to enhance public safety