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Laguna Beach police cite tech investments, report 23% drop in crime in 2024
Summary
Police Chief Jeff Calvert said Laguna Beach expanded automated license plate readers, added drones and upgraded data systems as part of a push to reduce crime; he told a local radio show the department recorded a 23% drop in crime in 2024 compared with 2023 and credited data-driven policing and regional integration.
Laguna Beach Police Chief Jeff Calvert said the department expanded its use of automated license plate readers, added drones with new capabilities and upgraded its records and dispatch systems as part of a push to reduce crime and improve response times.
Calvert made the remarks during an interview on the Fair Game radio program hosted by Alex Renogy. "We actually had a 23% reduction in crime in 2024, compared to 2023," Calvert said, adding that the department has combined community engagement with technology and data-driven policing to guide resource deployment.
The chief described several specific investments. He said Laguna Beach first installed 10 automated license plate readers (ALPRs) at primary ingress and egress points after receiving a post-9/11 grant, then expanded to 22 cameras placed throughout the city to improve coverage. "In 2024, we had 50 warrants that were alerted through the ALPR and 36 stolen vehicles," Calvert said, explaining how alerts feed to dispatch so officers can locate suspect vehicles.
Calvert also discussed a…
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