Automatic licence-plate reader leads to two arrests

Automatic licence-plate-reading technology led to two separate traffic stops in Saanich last week that recovered a stolen vehicle, fentanyl and several weapons.

About 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 18, traffic safety officers pulled over a male driver in the 3400 block of Saanich Road after an automated licence-plate reader alerted them that the vehicle he was driving was stolen.

Police arrested the driver and a female passenger at the scene, and discovered bear spray, a Taser and drugs believed to be fentanyl and cocaine.

The vehicle was stolen from Victoria, said Const. Markus Anastasiades of Saanich police.

The driver received a ticket for open liquor and open cannabis in a motor vehicle and a 24-hour driving suspension. Charges related to the stolen vehicle, drugs and weapons are also being investigated.

The vehicle was seized and returned to the registered owner.

The next day, a second incident using the same technology led to the arrest of a male motorist for driving while prohibited, as well as the discovery of fentanyl, crystal methamphetamine, bear spray and brass knuckles.

The driver was charged with driving while prohibited, and the vehicle was impounded.

Charges are being investigated for the drugs and weapons.

“The ALPR technology continues to be an effective investigative tool that our officers are using to improve road safety, reduce crime and increase patrol efficiency,” said Anastasiades.

There does not appear to be any connection between the two incidents, according to police.