Mesa County officials are taking a high-tech approach to deter auto thefts at local trailheads. The Sheriff’s Office has begun deploying solar-powered camera trailers to monitor high-crime areas and protect outdoor enthusiasts from theft.

Technology as a Crime Deterrent

Sergeant Jeff Canizzaro, who oversees the Real-time Crime Center & Intelligence Unit, says these cameras help law enforcement allocate resources effectively.

“They help us deploy our resources better to high-crime areas or areas that we predicted may see a surge in criminal activity,” Canizzaro said.

In 2024, Mesa County recorded 143 thefts from vehicles, with five incidents occurring at trailheads. So far in 2025, three similar thefts have been reported.

A Strategic Response to Seasonal Crime

Canizzaro noted that thefts from autos tend to increase in the spring as more people venture outdoors. The Sheriff’s Office hopes these camera-equipped trailers will serve as a deterrent.

“The spring warm-up time is really the time that these theft mottos occur at trailheads,” he said. “Placing these trailers is a deterrent to help keep people’s valuables safe, whether out enjoying our outdoors.”

How the Solar-Powered Cameras Work

The mobile trailers run on solar power and are monitored remotely by the Real-time Crime Center. Originally used for major events like the Mesa County Fair and Country Jam, officials now see their potential in preventing vehicle break-ins at trailheads.

• Solar-powered: Operates without relying on external power sources.
• Remote access: Law enforcement can monitor footage in real-time.
• Multi-use deployment: Initially used for large gatherings, now repurposed for crime prevention.

Community Vigilance Still Matters

Despite the added surveillance, law enforcement stresses that community awareness remains essential. Canizzaro urged residents to take simple precautions to reduce the risk of theft.

“It’s important to make sure your vehicle is locked. It’s important to make sure that you don’t have valuables visible in the vehicle,” he said.

While the goal is to eliminate thefts at trailheads entirely, authorities hope this initiative significantly reduces incidents in the coming months.