Special Services
Introducing K9 Arco and Sgt. Joe Cochran: Partners in Protecting Crawford County (est. 2025)
In a significant stride towards enhancing public safety, the Crawford County Sheriff's Office proudly welcomes its newest member, K9 Arco. This multipurpose police dog joins the force equipped with extensive training and a commitment to serving the community.
Sgt. Joe Cochran, a seasoned law enforcement officer with years of experience in K9 handling, will partner with Arco. Known for his dedication and expertise, Sgt. Cochran brings a wealth of knowledge to the role, ensuring Arco is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Arco's capabilities extend beyond routine patrol duties. Trained in tracking, drug detection, and suspect apprehension, Arco will play a vital role in maintaining public safety and supporting law enforcement operations across Crawford County.
Sgt. Cochran emphasizes the importance of the bond between handler and K9, stating, "Arco is not just a partner, but an invaluable asset in our mission to protect and serve. Together, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of law enforcement."
As they embark on this new chapter, the Crawford County Sheriff's Office looks forward to the positive impact Arco and Sgt. Cochran will bring to the community, ensuring a safer and stronger future for all residents.
Drone Team-Deputy Mark Beezley (left) and Corporal John Warner (right) (est. 2025)
The Crawford County Sheriff's Office Drone Team utilizes advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to enhance public safety, improve operational effectiveness, and support law enforcement missions throughout Crawford County. Equipped with state-of-the-art drone technology, including thermal imaging capabilities, our team provides aerial support for a wide range of incidents while helping reduce risks to both first responders and the public.
The Drone Team is deployed for search and rescue operations, missing person investigations, criminal investigations, crime scene documentation, disaster assessment, fugitive apprehension, and emergency management incidents. By providing real-time aerial intelligence, drones allow deputies and partner agencies to make informed decisions more quickly and safely.
In addition to law enforcement operations, the Drone Team supports community events, public safety education, and interagency partnerships throughout the region. The use of drone technology often allows incidents to be resolved more efficiently while reducing manpower requirements, minimizing operational costs, and enhancing situational awareness.
The Crawford County Sheriff's Office is committed to the responsible and transparent use of drone technology. All drone operations are conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including regulations established by the Federal Aviation Administration. The primary mission of the Drone Team is to protect lives, preserve property, support public safety operations, and better serve the residents of Crawford County.
|
|
Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) Program
The Crawford County Sheriff's Office utilizes Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology through both mobile and fixed-camera platforms to enhance public safety, assist criminal investigations, and support proactive law enforcement efforts. Our ALPR program combines mobile vehicle-mounted technology through Axon and strategically placed fixed cameras through Flock Safety to provide deputies with valuable investigative leads while maintaining accountability and transparency.
ALPR technology captures images of vehicle license plates and associated vehicle characteristics, such as make, model, color, and distinguishing features. This information helps law enforcement identify stolen vehicles, locate missing or endangered persons, track wanted offenders, and investigate serious criminal activity occurring both within Crawford County and in neighboring jurisdictions.
The Sheriff's Office uses ALPR technology as an investigative tool-not as a means of continuous surveillance of law-abiding citizens. Searches of ALPR data must be supported by a legitimate law enforcement purpose and are subject to strict access controls, auditing, and oversight. Users are prohibited from accessing the system for personal reasons or without a valid investigative need. Any misuse of the system may result in disciplinary action, loss of access privileges, criminal prosecution, or other applicable penalties.
Our fixed-camera network through Flock Safety helps investigators develop leads when crimes occur in Crawford County and when offenders travel into or out of the county. Likewise, mobile ALPR technology deployed in patrol vehicles allows deputies to identify vehicles associated with active warrants, stolen vehicles, AMBER Alerts, Silver Alerts, and other public safety concerns while actively patrolling the community.
To promote transparency and public trust, the Crawford County Sheriff's Office participates in Flock Safety's public transparency portal, which provides information regarding system usage, policies, and accountability measures. Residents may view this information at Crawford County Flock Safety Transparency Portal and Axon Transparency Portal.
The primary purpose of the ALPR program is to improve public safety, assist in solving crimes, recover stolen property, locate missing persons, and provide deputies with timely, objective information that supports lawful and effective law enforcement operations while respecting individual privacy rights.