Tarentum police eyeing traffic cameras, license plate readers for Brackenridge to help with investigations

Tarentum police are eyeing the installation of more traffic cameras and license plate readers — for Brackenridge.

Chief Bill Vakulick is considering participating in the ANNIE traffic program, which covers the cost of equipment and installation in exchange for a percentage of fines and revenues.

It was not clear what percentage is required.

“We have cameras and (license) plate readers at several intersections in the town,” Tarentum Borough Manager Dwight Boddorf said. “We pay quite a bit, about $10,000 a year.

“Now that we are with Brackenridge (police), we want to have the same capabilities there.”

The boroughs’ police departments consolidated earlier this year, with Tarentum taking on the three Brackenridge officers and all administrative duties.

Tarentum would not be charged for participation in the ANNIE program, which would cover the equipment for its neighboring borough.

Council is waiting for additional information from the company before a vote and before taking the proposal to Brackenridge officials.

Brackenridge Mayor Lindsay Fraser said the cameras are something she has been hoping to implement for a while.

The borough recently installed security cameras at the front doors and lobby of the Brackenridge Borough Building, Fraser said.

If approved, equipment would target the blind spot that currently exists between Tarentum, which is on one side of Brackenridge, and Harrison, which is one the other.

There are minimal license plate readers and traffic cameras in Brackenridge, which can cause a challenge for police investigations.

Tarentum Mayor Bob Lang, a retired Tarentum police officer, said the tracking capabilities are invaluable for police.

Installation along First Avenue in Brackenridge would be a major help, he said.

In January, Harrison police were able to match a suspect’s vehicle to one that traveled through the township toward Brackenridge in the days leading up to a robbery at Sheetz on Freeport Road.

Boddorf said traffic cameras have contributed to the resolution of several police-related matters.

“It’s used weekly,” he said.

“There’s very little downside to this, and, if we can offload some of the cost, that’s great.”