in 2011, the L.A. Police Foundation “donated” $210,173 worth of Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPR) for LAPD to use in Skid Row. These systems, which scan license plates to track people’s movements, were previously tested around MacArthur Park along with facial recognition and “intelligent’ video capabilities. LAPD also tested phone surveillance technology in Skid Row, including Stingrays and Digital Receiver Technology (aka “Dirt Box”). These devices mimic cell phone towers to connect and monitor mobile devices. In 2011, the Los Angeles Police Foundation gave almost $25,000 to upgrade “Stingray” devices placed in Skid Row.