The Fairfax County Police Department uses License Plate Reader (LPR) technology as a critical tool to support criminal investigations, locate missing persons, and recover stolen vehicles. LPR cameras capture images of license plates from vehicles in public view and compare them against law enforcement databases to identify vehicles associated with serious crimes or active cases. All use of LPR technology is governed by Virginia law and strict department policy, ensuring that searches are conducted only for legitimate law enforcement purposes and are subject to audit and oversight. The department maintains strong safeguards to protect privacy, including limited data retention and controlled access, while leveraging this technology to provide timely, actionable information that enhances public safety and investigative effectiveness. LPR data is not shared with federal law enforcement agencies unless they obtain a court order for investigations involving violations of Virginia state code.

The Fairfax County Police Department utilizes drone technology to enhance situational awareness, improve response times, and support public safety operations through its Drone as First Responder (DFR) program and traditional Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) unit. The DFR program allows trained pilots in the Real Time Crime Center to deploy drones rapidly to calls for service, providing live aerial intelligence to officers before they arrive on scene. This capability supports safer, more informed decision making during critical incidents, including searches for missing persons, suspect tracking, and emergency response. In addition to DFR, the department maintains a traditional drone unit that is deployed for planned operations such as crash reconstruction, search and rescue missions, crime scene documentation, and specialized tactical support. All drone operations are conducted in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration regulations, state law, and county and department policy, with a strong emphasis on transparency, accountability, and the protection of individual privacy.

Mobile camera systems are portable security platforms that can be quickly deployed to locations where temporary surveillance or enhanced public safety monitoring is needed. These systems use cameras, wireless connectivity, and independent power sources to provide real-time situational awareness in areas without permanent camera infrastructure. Mobile camera systems can support special events, crime prevention efforts, traffic management, emergency incidents, emerging crime trends, and other public safety operations by helping responders monitor activity and gather information when and where it is needed most.