Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has recovered $1 million worth of stolen vehicles so far this year.
Over the past six months beginning on January 1, HCSO's Eye on Crime unit assisted in the recovery of 81 stolen vehicles with a value of about $1,001,300.
These stolen vehicle investigations also lead to the arrests of 39 suspects with charges including Grand Theft Motor Vehicle, Burglary of an Unoccupied Conveyance, and various warrants.
"I couldn't be more excited that we as a sheriff's office have been able to integrate technology into our crime fighting with such great success," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our Eye on Crime cameras allow our covert units to move in and effect arrest without causing damage or putting our community at risk due to some lengthy pursuit."
According to HCSO, the Eye on Crime unit monitors more than 100 cameras placed strategically across the county as well as license plate readers. Eye on Crime personnel are able to notify patrol units immediately when a stolen vehicle or license plate passes a reader and provide timely updates to deputies as they track the vehicle. Personnel also monitor radio traffic and provide assistance with any active calls in the area of the cameras. Videos of traffic crashes, missing persons, and fleeing suspects are commonly provided.
