License plate readers serve as a useful tool for law enforcement. It is a camera system that comes in handy in many different ways, documenting and reading all license plates that come into view. It also records the time, date and location at the time of the picture.
While these cameras can prove useful in solving traffic crimes or even unrelated crimes, one may ask whether or not they invade your personal privacy.
Use of LPRs to find vehicles
ClickOrlando.com takes a look into a case where a license plate reader led to a suspect arrest. The plate reader picked up on the man’s license plate Sunday at around 6:30 p.m. It notified local authority, who then attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle and its driver.
Though the man sped off, stop sticks halted his car in a parking lot and arrested. The man faces multiple charges related to theft, including the theft of a backpack and credit cards. Other charges include fleeing from law enforcement, petit theft, illegal use of credit card, grand theft and burglary.
The invasive collection and storage of information
But opposition to LPRs point out that access to the information it provides may prove more invasive than you think. In particular, when law enforcement has the ability to track and record every car that comes and goes, it makes protecting privacy impossible. This information can end up disseminated over a wide network as well, putting your personal information out there where many eyes can see it.
If you face charges due to a license plate reader, consider contacting legal help. They can guide you through the process as you go through trial to fight against these charges.
