In a recent government meeting, local law enforcement officials highlighted the effectiveness of their license plate reader network in combating crime in Elmhurst. This proactive system alerts officers when stolen vehicles or those linked to felony crimes enter the area, allowing for timely responses and interventions. The police reported a notable decrease in property crimes, attributing this success to the technology that enables them to track and interdict stolen vehicles before they can be used in further criminal activities.

Despite the overall decline in property crime, officials acknowledged a rise in armed robberies this year, with seven incidents reported. Fortunately, most of these cases have been resolved with arrests, underscoring the department's commitment to addressing violent crime.

The meeting also introduced two new vehicle pursuit termination technologies aimed at enhancing public safety. The first is a GPS-based tagging system that allows officers to track fleeing vehicles without engaging in high-speed chases. This technology was recently utilized successfully when officers tracked two suspects who had committed a burglary, leading to their apprehension in Cook County.

Additionally, the department has adopted a remote tire deflation device, which allows officers to safely disable fleeing vehicles from a distance. This innovative tool has already proven effective in several incidents, including the capture of suspects involved in armed robberies.

Officials emphasized the importance of these technologies in maintaining community safety, particularly given Elmhurst's strategic location near major expressways, which makes it a target for criminals fleeing from other areas. The police department remains committed to leveraging technology to enhance their crime-fighting capabilities while prioritizing public safety.