SDPD license plate reader system aids in Hillcrest hate crime arrest
Officers have arrested a suspect connected with hate crime-related vandalism in Hillcrest thanks in part to the San Diego Police Department's Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) system, the department announced Thursday.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Officers have arrested a suspect connected with hate crime-related vandalism in Hillcrest thanks in part to the San Diego Police Department's Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) system, the department announced Thursday.
The suspect, 21-year-old Daniel Coad, was arrested Thursday while a second suspect remains at large, authorities said.
Back in August, the hate crime-related vandalism was reported in the area of Fifth and Robinson Avenues in Hillcrest by local business leaders in the neighborhood. The vandalism included a swastika and an anti-LGBTQ+ slur that were spray painted on trashcans and walls, police said.
During the investigation, detectives were able to get surveillance footage of a vehicle which was uploaded into SDPD's ALPR system.
“It appears they possibly left the area in a vehicle similar to an early 2000s grey Buick Century, which was missing the right front hubcap,” the department stated in an earlier release in August.
A subsequent investigation stemming from the identification of the suspect vehicle led to the identification of two suspects and arrest warrants being issued, according to SDPD.
Anyone with more information regarding the incident is asked to call (619) 692-4800 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
What's Your Reaction?
