Worksession re AM 524-2026, Real Time Crime Center

This was a worksession held by the Municipality of Anchorage on August 22, 2026, focused on AM 524-2026, a cooperative purchase from Thundercat Technology for equipment related to the Anchorage Police Department's Real Time Crime Center. Chief Case presented on the department's technological advancements, emphasizing the department's leadership in law enforcement technology and the importance of balancing public safety with privacy and legal compliance, particularly under Alaska's strict search and seizure laws. The discussion covered existing and planned technology such as license plate readers, video camera systems, and data access policies. The assembly inquired about the use of Flock Safety cameras, which the department confirmed they do not use or have contracts with. Funding for the equipment purchase, approximately $600,000, comes from federal forfeiture funds with strict usage restrictions. The item was postponed for a vote until the September 1st agenda. The meeting also addressed policy oversight, data retention, and privacy safeguards related to the Real Time Crime Center's technology.