LAPD NEWS RELEASE
The Los Alamos Police Department made three arrests over the past week through the coordinated efforts of patrol officers, the department’s K-9 Unit, and the use of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology.
On July 28, officers received an alert from the department’s ALPR system identifying a vehicle associated with an individual who had an active arrest warrant. Officers quickly coordinated their response and located the vehicle in the Smith’s Food and Drug parking lot. During the investigation, officers requested assistance from the department’s K-9 Unit. The police K-9 conducted a free-air sniff of the vehicle and alerted to the presence of narcotics. As the investigation progressed, officers also identified another individual associated with the incident who had an active outstanding arrest warrant. That individual was taken into custody. Based on the evidence developed during the investigation, officers obtained a search warrant for the vehicle, which was executed on the evening of July 29, 2026. During the search, officers recovered methamphetamine and methadone, resulting in additional criminal charges.
On August 5, officers again received an alert from the ALPR system indicating that the driver of the vehicle had an active arrest warrant. Officers confirmed the warrant, conducted a lawful traffic stop, identified the driver as the wanted individual, and safely took the individual into custody without incident.
“The successful apprehension of wanted individuals and the recovery of illegal narcotics demonstrate the value of combining well-trained officers, specialized resources, and modern technology,” said Police Chief Dino Sgambellone. “The ALPR system is one of many tools available to our officers that helps improve public safety while operating within the law and under established department policies.”
The three arrests highlight the LAPD’s continued investment in technology, officer training, and specialized resources that enhance public safety. When used responsibly and in accordance with department policy and state law, ALPR technology helps officers identify wanted individuals, recover stolen vehicles, and support criminal investigations while respecting the privacy of law-abiding motorists.