Expected to be implemented in March 2026, the Auburn Police Department plans to encrypt its radio services, eliminating the ability for radio scanners to listen to police communications.

According to Auburn Police Department (APD) Chief Mark Caillier, after the department switched to the Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network, it gained the ability to encrypt radio communication. Caillier said that in March 2026, it’s estimated that the department will make the switch to encrypted radio communication, and he cites safety and the securing of sensitive information as the main factors driving the switch.

“The simple fact is that criminals monitor our radio system, know when and how we are responding, and adjust accordingly,” Caillier said. “This is one more thing that we can control to help keep our community safer. Sensitive information about incidents is also shared over the radio and that information needs to be secure.”

Caillier said after the switch, only first responders, including dispatchers, will be able to hear what is said live over the radio system. Caillier said that all the information citizens want will still be available, just not in real-time. He said dispatch records will be available through public records requests.

Regarding keeping the public informed, Caillier said that APD has a full-time public information officer who provides press releases and updates about incidents. He said APD’s media line is monitored 24/7.