Topline:
One hundred automated license plate reader cameras are being installed across the northwest San Fernando Valley to help police track vehicles connected to crimes.
Why it matters: The cameras, which started going up last month, have already helped authorities identify a stolen vehicle and find a person accused of stealing a watch in two separate cases, according to Councilmember John Lee’s office. Both ended in arrests.
The details: The cameras will be at, or near, intersections in Chatsworth, Northridge, Granada Hills, Sherwood Forest, Porter Ranch, West Hills, and North Hills — all in Lee’s 12th district.
Why now: Police and city officials hosted a news conference Thursday from Rinaldi Street to introduce the program.
The backstory: Lee set aside $500,000 for the purchase, installation, and maintenance of the cameras earlier this year.
What's next: The LAPD and Bureau of Street Lighting hope to have all of the cameras installed by the end of the year.