Read-Handed: Shirley Man Busted Stealing Plate Readers

A 68-year-old Shirley man was arrested for allegedly stealing two automated license plate readers from a local intersection, Suffolk County police said.

Miguel Perez allegedly removed the Axon license plate readers from Moriches-Middle Island Road near Glen Drive in Shirley.

Police arrested Perez the next day on Carnation Drive in Shirley.

Perez was charged with fourth-degree grand larceny. He was issued a desk appearance ticket and is scheduled to be arraigned at a later date.

Automated license plate readers capture vehicle plate information and are used by law enforcement to assist with criminal investigations and locate vehicles of interest.

Detectives are continuing to investigate the theft. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Suffolk County Police Property/Auto Crime Section at 631-852-6429.