Plate

Oakland’s Big Bet on License Plate Readers: Safety Boost or Surveillance Overload?

by

Oakland, Calif. – Governor Gavin Newsom recently unveiled a plan to bolster public safety in Oakland by deploying nearly 300 new license plate readers throughout the city, a significant escalation from the current arsenal of nonfunctional devices. Funded by the California Highway Patrol (CHP), these sophisticated cameras are designed to capture and analyze vehicle license plates, identifying those associated with serious crimes. This expansion aligns with broader state efforts to address organized crime and rampant roadway violence, yet it does not include a corresponding increase in the number of police officers, presenting operational challenges for … Read more

Flock Safety Faces Legal Trouble as AI-Powered License Plate Readers Violate State Laws, Putting Driver Safety at Risk

by

Tampa, Florida – Flock Safety, a company that uses AI-powered license plate readers for law enforcement purposes, has come under fire for violating state laws related to driver safety. According to local officials in multiple states, Flock installed surveillance cameras without the necessary permits, posing potential safety risks. In February 2023, Flock installed AI surveillance cameras on John’s Pass Bridge in Florida on behalf of the Treasure Island Police Department. However, the cameras were flagged for breaking state rules as they were placed without approval from the Florida Department of Transportation. The department later requested … Read more