Congressman Frank Mrvan and Gary Police Chief Derrick Cannon announced that the department received $264,000 in funding.
The funds will allow the police department to acquire stationery and mobile license-plate-reader cameras. The cameras can send real-time data to the Gary Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center. The technology will help police officers identify vehicles associated with criminal activity, locate missing people and recover stolen vehicles.
“The news we’re sharing today shows that Gary is making additional investments in modern technology that will allow us to keep our streets safer,” said Ellis Dumas, chief of staff for Gary Mayor Eddie Melton, in a press release. “We know that safety is truly about community well-being. Our residents deserve safe neighborhoods, where they can grow, raise families and build their dreams without fear.”
The Gary Police Department has about 170 cameras, with 73 fixed to specific locations. The department’s other cameras are mobile and attached to trailers or squad cars.
“The overall goal is to improve the quality of life for the citizens of Gary,” Cannon said. “We’re honored and excited to be able to expand the footprint we’ve already laid down. These LPR cameras will give us the ability to meet the needs of not only the citizens of Gary but also our Region.”
The funds request was included in Rep. Mvran’s Community Project Funding requests in the fiscal year 2024 appropriations measure earlier this year.
“This is a multiplier. This is an opportunity,” Cannon said. “This will allow us to have an eye on the city and provide real time information to officers on the street, so when they are going to a 911 call, they have supplemental information to give. We will be putting it to direct and immediate good use.”
Lake County also announced funding for the department. The council on July 9 approved $262,006 for equipment and service improvements in Calumet Township. The board of commissioners also approved the deal.
“This will be a plus,” said Lake County Concilman Ron Brewer Sr., who served on the Gary Common Council for more than 10 years. “It will move the department in the direction of filling some gaps so police can make sure they are able to do a decent job for the citizens of Gary.”
(Photo provided by the Gary Police Department)
