Flock Safety Transparency Portal

MLPD's Flock Presentation to Town Council

Mammoth Lakes Police Department is responsible for the safety and security of the community and all visitors to the Town. MLPD's ability to facilitate public safety efforts directly contributes to a high quality of life for the community and visitors, which is enhanced through the strategic deployment of its department’s staff and the use of emerging technologies. MLPD patrol staffing typically consists of one Supervisor and two Officers per shift providing coverage 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year within the approximate 25 square miles of town limits. Although these Officers patrol within the Town limits, they may not be in the vicinity of a crime the moment it occurs. Many crimes are discovered long after they were committed and are then reported to MLPD for a response and investigation. This puts Officers at a disadvantage in locating the suspects, who may have already fled the scene. Officers often rely on witnesses to provide information on suspect vehicles. Witnesses are sometimes reluctant to come forward or have difficulty obtaining reliable information during a stressful event. The implementation of an ALPR program aids the Mammoth Lakes Police Department in its investigative efforts in the following ways:

• Locate vehicles that are stolen, involved in criminal activity, or wanted by law enforcement.
• Provide leads to assist with investigations into crimes committed within the Town.
• Detect vehicles associated with missing persons and at-risk persons, including those on active Amber Alerts, Feather Alerts, and Silver Alerts.
• Detect vehicles associated with subjects with outstanding arrest warrants or otherwise lawfully sought by law enforcement.

In addition to crime prevention responsibilities, MLPD is also responsible for the Emergency Management Planning and Operations for the Town of Mammoth Lakes’ residents and visitors. To conduct these responsibilities effectively, accurate planning and forecasting is required before a major incident or disaster takes place. This planning is dependent on acquiring crucial data (population, number of vehicles on roadways, traffic modelling, pre-identified evacuation routes, etc.) to construct operational response plans, such as evacuation plans in the event of a wildfire or other emergency. With the advent and advancement in technology, ALPR’s are becoming common tools for numerous public safety agencies throughout the State of California and nationwide. This advanced and ever evolving technology can assist the Mammoth Lakes Police Department in providing a professional level of public service, ensuring personal safety, protection of property, and continued enhancement of the quality of life for those who live, work, and visit in the community.