SPOKANE, Wash. – The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) shared a video on how investigators use innovative technology to help local businesses reduce crime.
Through the Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC), they deploy Cameras on Wheels (COWs), Radar ALPR Trailers (RATs) and Camera Trailers with extendable poles, known as GIRAFFEs.
These tools are designed to deter crime and provide vital investigative information. Sheriff Nowels and local business leaders have praised the positive impact of this program.
The COWs, retired patrol cars equipped with masts and multiple cameras, are a key component of the RTCC, said SCSO.
Built by the RTCC and Sheriff’s garage staff, these vehicles offer flexibility for live video and ALPR coverage across Spokane County.
RATs are radar trailers with ALPR cameras used for traffic calming and control. They are strategically placed to address emerging needs but are not used for traffic enforcement or issuing citations.
GIRAFFEs, trailers with extendable masts and cameras, provide high vantage point video coverage for problem areas and special events.
As of September 23, 2025, the RTCC has reported 747 success stories including the recovery of 236 stolen vehicles, the arrest or charging of 522 suspects and the location of 16 missing persons.
