Dear Editor,
As technology evolves, so do the tools used to promote public safety. One gaining traction nationwide is the automated license plate reader (LPR).
These solar-powered cameras, mounted along roads and in parking lots, capture images of passing vehicles — recording license plate numbers, time stamps, locations, and details like make, color, bumper stickers, or visible damage.
In Mount Vernon, LPRs have been installed in several locations, including near the Knox County Health Department on Sate Route 36, in the Lowe’s parking lot, near the high school, and across from Riverside Park.
Supporters highlight their usefulness in identifying stolen vehicles, locating suspects, and solving crimes. At about $2,500 annually per camera, they’re relatively affordable for local governments and even private entities.
The models most commonly used in Knox County appear to be from Flock Safety.
While LPRs can support legitimate safety goals, they also raise important concerns about privacy and data use.
Each scan creates a geotagged record of a vehicle’s movement, stored for 30 days or more and often shared with a national law enforcement network.
This enables warrantless tracking across jurisdictions — with little public oversight.
Many LPR systems offer a “Transparency Portal” to show how the technology is used, including audit logs and policies. However, this feature does not appear to be active locally.
That leaves residents in the dark about how data related to their travel habits are accessed, stored, or shared.
As we adopt surveillance tools like PRs, it’s critical that their use be governed by clear policies, independent oversight, and ongoing public dialogue.
Local officials should be transparent about where cameras are placed, how long data is retained, who has access, and under what conditions.
We can embrace innovation without sacrificing civil liberties. With thoughtful safeguards, we can promote safety while maintaining accountability — and public trust.
Nathan Keirns
Howard, Ohio