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 Automated License Plate Readers
There has been significant drop in vehicle thefts in Fairfax County since 2022 and Automated License Plate Readers, or ALPRs, have played a key part in the reduction. First introduced in tests in 2019, ALPRs have steadily become a key part of FCPD’s crime fighting efforts. Not only have they been credited with a 37% drop in vehicle thefts in the county so far this year, they have also been important in tracking down and apprehending suspects in many other types of crime. Linked into the FCPD Realtime Crime Center (RTCC), ALPRs help officers locate vehicles faster, identify suspects, and generate critical investigative leads that might not otherwise be available.
ALPR cameras are of two types – mobile cameras mounted on vehicles and stationary cameras permanently placed along roadways. There are also trailer mounted cameras which can be positioned as needed at hotspots. When deployed, these trailers are easily visible and can be a deterrent to crime as well as being an investigative tool.
Since 2022, 500 stolen vehicles were recovered in Fairfax County with ALPR help. In Franconia, of the 35 vehicles stolen so far this year, 29 have been recovered, many with the help of the district’s 20+ ALPRs.
ALPRs are also a valuable aid in solving crimes other than vehicle theft. One example occurred in Franconia in October 2025 when ALPR cameras hit on a vehicle with a license plate that had been reported stolen. The car was stopped and found to have narcotics, more stolen license plates, and other items of stolen property. In other cases, ALPRs have been important investigative tools that helped link suspects to vehicles and to crime scenes.
The use of ALPR is governed by Virginia Code § 2.2-5517 and by FCPD General Order 424. Among the constraints on ALPR use is the requirement that ALPR data be destroyed after 21 days unless it is required for ongoing investigation or legal proceedings.
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 Arrest for Domestic Assault Expands to Drugs
Officer Peter Kirchman demonstrated exceptional initiative, professionalism, and dedication while handling a complex and escalating domestic assault incident.
Officer Kirchman responded to a domestic violence call in which the offender assaulted their father. He conducted a thorough investigation, established probable cause, and effected an arrest. The subject was transported to the Adult Detention Center, where Officer Kirchman obtained and executed a warrant for domestic assault. He also ensured an emergency protective order (EPO) was issued and served. The offender was subsequently released on an unsecured bond.
Only a few hours later Officer Kirchman returned to the same residence for a second domestic assault call. The offender had returned home from jail and assaulted the father once again. After receiving a lookout that the offender had fled in a vehicle, Officer Kirchman proactively canvassed the area, located the suspect, and - along with assisting officers - conducted a safe and effective traffic stop. The subject was taken into custody without incident.
During the vehicle inventory, Officer Kirchman discovered multiple large bags of marijuana, suspected cocaine, packaging materials, a scale, cash, and two cell phones. He transported the subject back to the Adult Detention Center, where additional warrants were obtained and executed for domestic assault, violation of an EPO, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of a Schedule I/II narcotic. This time, the subject was held on no bond.
Officer Kirchman anticipates preparing search warrants for the seized phones to further strengthen the case, demonstrating his continued ownership and follow‑through on the case.
For his initiative, diligence, and unwavering commitment to excellence in the performance of his duties, Officer Peter Kirchman is Officer of the Month.
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