Residents raise privacy concerns over license plate reader cameras used by law enforcement

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Automated license plate reader cameras capture a photo of a vehicle along with its license plate, location, and the time it passed by. As their use continues to grow, some residents say they want more transparency about how the technology is used.

Sheriff’s deputies say the cameras do not identify who is driving a vehicle. According to the agency, every search of the system requires a legitimate case number and is subject to audits.

Chris Sims, a public information officer with the sheriff’s office, said access to the photographs is limited.

“The only way to access those photographs outside of that vehicle being part of some type of what we call a hot list, which means that it’s a stolen vehicle, a stolen license plate, a suspended driver’s license, an expired tag,” Sims said.

Residents said they appreciate technology that helps solve crimes, but they also want to know their information is being handled responsibly and that there are enough safeguards to prevent misuse.

The agency’s policy is to keep license plate reader data for 30 days before it is deleted, deputies said.

Sheriff’s deputies said the technology has helped investigators solve homicides, locate missing people, and recover abducted children.

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