Willcox Police Department Enhances Surveillance Capabilities with $1.37 Million Grant

The Willcox Police Department in Arizona recently received a grant of $1.37 million from the Department of Emergency and Military Affairs to improve their technology. The funds will be used to enhance surveillance capabilities that will assist in combating smuggling activities along the southern border.

With only 11 officers on staff, the Willcox Police Department will benefit from having additional surveillance tools to monitor criminal activity passing through the city. The new radios purchased with the grant money will enable better communication with law enforcement agencies across the state. Additionally, new vehicles, including canine units and a faster car for pursuits, were purchased to enhance the department’s capabilities.

According to Police Chief Dale Hadfield, upgrading their technology was deemed necessary as the city’s streets are frequently utilized by smugglers transporting both migrants and drugs. The license plate cameras are strategically placed throughout the city near entry and exit points. While they do not operate continuously, they capture images of vehicles passing by. If a license plate captured by the cameras matches one in an open police report, law enforcement will be alerted. Hadfield emphasized that these cameras serve as an investigative tool rather than preventing crimes before they occur.

Reporter Alexis Ramanjulu covers news in Cochise County for KGUN 9 and has a background in journalism from her time at the Herald/Review in Sierra Vista. For story ideas or tips, you can contact Alexis by email at alexis.ramanjulu@kgun9.com or connect with her on Facebook