Nine license plate cameras to be removed in Alachua

Alachua is set to remove nine automated license plate reader cameras within the city following a directive from the Florida Department of Transportation. The cameras, located within state transportation rights-of-way, must be removed within 30 days, according to a notification received by the Alachua Police Department.

The directive does not mean Alachua will be without license plate readers entirely. Cameras not covered by the FDOT permit criteria will remain in operation, Alachua Police Chief Jesse Sandusky confirmed. The department is continuing to monitor legal and legislative developments surrounding the technology.

"The use of this technology has raised important questions among members of the public regarding privacy, access to information, appropriate law enforcement use and potential Fourth Amendment implications," Sandusky said in a statement. "These are legitimate concerns that we take seriously."

Automated license plate readers capture license plate information from passing vehicles, which law enforcement agencies can use to identify vehicles associated with criminal investigations, stolen vehicles, or missing and endangered individuals. Sandusky defended the technology as a vital tool for investigations and public safety, citing its use in apprehending suspects in serious crimes, locating vulnerable people, and recovering stolen vehicles and firearms.

"It is important to remember that as of now, the courts have stated that the use of LPR does not violate 4th Amendment protections," Sandusky stated. "If and when those standards evolve, we will evaluate our practices and make the necessary adjustments to remain consistent with the law and our responsibility to protect the rights of the people we serve."

The Alachua Police Department has policies governing access to sensitive law enforcement information, including license plate reader data. Allegations of improper access or misuse are subject to review and investigation, and violations can result in disciplinary action. Sandusky indicated that the department will review its existing policies to determine if additional internal safeguards are necessary.

The move comes amid broader scrutiny in Florida regarding the placement and data collection capabilities of automated license plate readers. For Alachua, the immediate impact will be the removal of the nine cameras affected by the FDOT directive.

"We do not believe that public safety and individual privacy have to be competing principles," Sandusky said. "Our responsibility is to pursue both." He added that APD will continue seeking a balance that allows officers to use technology effectively while protecting residents' privacy and constitutional rights.