LA Deploys ALPRs Amid Privacy Concerns

Los Angeles is deploying 100 automated license plate readers (ALPRs) in the San Fernando Valley, focusing on areas like Porter Ranch and Northridge where burglaries have significantly increased. Councilmember John Lee allocated $500,000 for the cameras, which are being installed at major intersections to assist the understaffed LAPD by providing real-time vehicle data to track criminal activities. The technology has drawn criticism from privacy advocates, such as the ACLU, who argue it infringes on privacy rights. Despite privacy concerns, the ALPRs have proven effective in solving cases, such as identifying a stolen vehicle and arresting a suspect in a theft. LAPD officials assure that only selected investigators can access the data, emphasizing its use for law enforcement purposes rather than traffic violations.