FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gastonia Police Department Launches Real Time Crime Center to Enhance Public Safety
Gastonia, NC — September 4, 2025 — The Gastonia Police Department officially unveiled its new Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) today, a state-of-the-art facility designed to strengthen public safety and support officers in the field with real-time intelligence and technology.
The RTCC is made possible through $963,000 in funding from a federal COPS Grant, along with $120,000 from ARPA funds and $100,000 from the City of Gastonia’s General Fund. The annual cost to staff and operate the center is projected at $641,000 per year.
The center is part of a nationwide network that connects more than 5,000 law enforcement agencies and 6,000 community and business camera partnerships, including major retailers such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ulta Beauty, and Target.
Locally, Gastonia’s RTCC includes:
- 21 Flock License Plate Readers (LPRs)
- 22 Flock Live Cameras
- 144 downtown surveillance cameras
- Plans to acquire the city’s first drone as a first responder in January 2026, equipped with license plate recognition and live video capabilities.
By law, video footage is stored for 30 days, with exceptions for ongoing criminal cases and prosecutions.
Flock camera technology has already demonstrated its value nationwide, assisting in the recovery of more than 1,000 missing people. The RTCC will begin with 4 full-time staff members, with the capacity to expand to 12 as operations grow.
Gastonia Police Chief Trent Conard emphasized the impact of the new RTCC on community safety:
“The Real Time Crime Center is a game-changer for Gastonia. By integrating cutting-edge technology with real-time data, we are giving our officers the tools they need to prevent crime, respond faster, and ultimately make our community safer. This investment shows our city’s commitment to protecting both people and property.”
The launch of the RTCC represents a major step forward in modern policing for Gastonia, aligning with national best practices to leverage technology for proactive crime prevention and enhanced community trust.
Media Contact:
Bill McGinty
Public Information/Media Relations
Gastonia Police Department
Cell: 704-419-0266
