License plate technology played a crucial role in apprehending an escaped Alabama inmate who was captured at a Buc-ee’s in Texas, more than 600 miles away. Law enforcement officials attribute the successful capture to the use of license plate technology.
Melissa Police have confirmed to Fox News Digital that they have successfully apprehended Pierson McKinnley Anthony, 25. Anthony was wanted by authorities in Marion County, Alabama, after managing to escape from custody.
Officials were alerted to a vehicle connected to Anthony’s escape after a Flock camera flagged it near the Buc-ee’s in Anna, just before 5 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 26th.
When the officers reached the scene, they observed Anthony exiting the parking lot of the Buc-ee’s. As a result, they promptly initiated a high-risk felony traffic stop.
Anthony surrendered peacefully to officials, without any incident. It was later revealed that the driver of the vehicle also had an active felony warrant for assisting in Anthony’s escape.
Both Anthony and the driver have been arrested and are currently held in custody. Officials have stated that they will remain in the Collin County Jail until they are extradited to Alabama.
In addition to that, officials have charged Anthony with a third-degree felony.
Melissa, located approximately 65 miles from Fort Worth, is over 600 miles distant from the jail in Alabama where Anthony made his escape.
The reason for Anthony’s initial charges and his subsequent custody status remains unclear at this time.
The Melissa Police Department attributed the successful location of Anthony to the utilization of Flock technology.
“This successful apprehension highlights the importance of interagency communication and the dedication of our officers to keeping Melissa safe,” Melissa Police Chief Erik Stokes said in a statement sent to Fox News Digital. “This is an example of how effective FLOCK technology can be in the apprehension of wanted fugitives from across the country.”
According to the company’s website, law enforcement agencies, neighborhoods, and communities utilize Flock safety technology to effectively combat crime. By employing license plate recognition and providing real-time alerts, this innovative technology assists authorities in locating wanted suspects.
