City Council approves purchase of “Car Chase Tracker” technology for Culver City Police Department, costing over $140,000.

The Culver City Police Department’s request for a contract with StarChase was approved during the City Council’s meeting on May 28, 2024, following a previous denial due to a tie-vote. The three-year contract, approved for an amount not-to-exceed $143,689, passed in a three to two vote. This agreement will provide the CCPD with a projectile tagging device that offers real-time location and speed data to police officers.

With StarChase, officers can utilize a foam tracking tag that can be attached to a suspect vehicle’s fender using a magnetic adhesive layer. The GPS tracking tag then provides precise locations, speeds, and travel directions of fleeing vehicles, enabling officers to track without engaging in high-speed pursuits. The device stops broadcasting tracking after eight hours, providing a limited window for use.

In 2023, the CCPD experienced 55 pursuits, with 40 of them being canceled, leaving only 15 pursuits that could have benefited from this technology. Chief Jason Sims highlighted the device as an “de-escalation tool” that could allow for safe pursuits and arrests in situations posing danger to officers and the community. The inclusion of this technology in the upcoming City budget signals the department’s commitment to ensuring officer and community safety.

Overall, funding for the police department in the upcoming City budget for 2024-2025 comprises almost one-third of the city’s General Fund. With the approval of the StarChase contract, the CCPD aims to enhance its capabilities in apprehending suspects while minimizing risks to both officers and the community.