Crime in Sioux Falls dropped in nearly every category through mid-year, as law enforcement leaders in part credited camera systems that can track wanted vehicles.
While the crime statistics largely tell a positive story, much of a joint semi-annual press conference around public safety focused on a topic of more recent controversy: The use of Automated License Plate Recognition, or ALPR systems.
“The cameras are doing exactly what we thought they would do, which is an effective tool for law enforcement to do what they need to do,” police chief Jon Thum said.
Sioux Falls first piloted the concept in 2025 with 28 cameras — about one-fourth of what a city this size would typically use for comprehensive coverage, Thum said. It’s since increased to 34 cameras in a two-year contract, governed by what Thum called “incredibly strong policies.”…