Fusion Center Resources To Help You Stay Informed and Safe

Resources

The following are some resources which Maryland's citizens may find helpful.

Combating Terrorism

Critical Infrastructure (Protection)

Cyber-Security

The Baltimore Police (BPD) SHIELD Network is designed to strengthen BPD partnership with the private and public sector. BPD SHIELD will serve as the Department’s program for communication with local businesses and organizations on matters of crime prevention and counterterrorism. The Network provides a venue for members to access information and resources from the BPD to address emerging and evolving conditions within Baltimore City. Through enhanced cooperation between the BPD and the Baltimore community, the Department is creating additional eyes and ears, working as a force-multiplier in the fight against crime and terrorism.

License Plate Reader Program

License Plate Reader (LPR) technology provides Maryland law enforcement with automated detection of a vehicle's license plate as they pass the reader. The LPR system consists of a high-speed camera, mounted either at a fixed location or on a mobile patrol vehicle, and a computer to convert data from electronic images of vehicle license plates into a readable format, and then compare the information against specified databases of license plates. The system attaches camera identification, date, time, and location information, to include GPS coordinates, to the digital image and it is maintained electronically in a central location to provide a means of ensuring the license plate number was properly converted. The digital image can include additional information such as:

  • The vehicle's make and model
  • The vehicle's driver and passengers
  • Distinguishing features (e.g., bumper stickers, damage)
  • State of registration

If a given plate is listed in the database, the system is capable of providing the vehicle's location, direction of travel, and the type of infraction related to the notification.

For information about how LPR data is used, please see our LPR Standard Operating Procedure.

For information about the LPR audit policy, please see our Model Audit Policy for Access to and Use of Automated LPR Data.