LEBANON, Tenn. (WKRN) — A multi-agency investigation is underway after license plate recognition (LPR) technology alerted the Lebanon Police Department to a suspect wanted out of three states for $500,000 worth of theft and vandalism.
“Officers did make contact with the driver, confirmed it was that person and he was wanted out of Tennessee, Maryland and Virginia on multiple theft and vandalism charges,” public information officer for the Lebanon Police Department, Zach Patton, said.
During a search of the suspect’s vehicle, officers recovered several tools they believe were used to carry out burglaries and acts of vandalism.
“We question sometimes: ‘how do these criminals find their way into our city?'” Patton added. “But we will say if you’re a criminal coming into our city — between our officers, detectives and the technology that we’re able to implement — we’re going to find you and hold you accountable for your actions,” Patton added.
Police say LPR technology played an integral role in catching the suspected thief and vandal. Not only that, but Patton said LPR technology has assisted Lebanon police on many other investigations.
In 2024, Lebanon police said they made 17 arrests directly due to their LPR system. The technology was first installed across the city in late 2021 and early 2022.
