Mercer Times

TRENTON—Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and New Jersey State Police (NJSP) Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan announced the release of the 2023 Audit of Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) Data Collected and Utilized by New Jersey Law Enforcement.

ALPRs are a critical technology that supports law enforcement efforts. The information provided by ALPRs assists in identifying, locating, and recovering stolen vehicles; disrupting auto theft networks; apprehending individuals involved in vehicle theft and other violent crimes; and finding missing persons and tracking Amber and Silver alerts.

“ALPR technology is crucial to protecting our communities. We remain committed to overseeing the use of this technology in a manner that prioritizes accountability and transparency,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Annual audits give us a chance to be transparent and show our dedication to using this technology ethically, equitably, and lawfully.”

In October 2022, Attorney General Platkin issued Directive 2022-12, updating the original 2010 Attorney General Directive on ALPR. This directive established guidelines governing the use of ALPR technology and the data it generates.

“We, as law enforcement, realize the critical importance of ALPR technology in improving public safety,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Regular audits are crucial to ensure that the use of ALPR technology is carried out in compliance with the law, promoting trust among the communities we serve.”

The new directive had two main goals: preserving and expanding measures to prevent abuse and protect privacy by restricting access to personal identifiable information linked to a vehicle’s license plate unless there was a specific basis; enabling statewide sharing and standardization of ALPR data to enhance its effectiveness in solving and preventing crimes.

The directive also instructed NJSP to oversee annual audits of each agency’s ALPR program to establish accountability and compliance, ensuring responsible use according to uniform standards. This framework helps foster trust between law enforcement agencies and their communities.

Additionally, the directive mandated training requirements for all authorized users to ensure they possess necessary skills for handling ALPRs responsibly. As part of implementing this directive, NJSP has streamlined systems across law enforcement agencies statewide through trainings on policies.

During the audit reporting period from July 1 through December 31, 2023, all 517 New Jersey law enforcement agencies required to certify for 2023 completed the audit. No complaints were reported about misuse of ALPRs by citizens. Two instances of significant violations related to protocol lapses in accessing ALPR data were found justified under reporting standards.

The directive mandates safeguards promoting accountability by limiting technology use to trained individuals who follow protocols ensuring proper oversight. Significant violations may still be justified uses but do not include minor errors like unintentionally selecting wrong purposes or placing valid information incorrectly during emergencies.

Statewide policy implementation includes designating ALPR coordinators at agency levels enhancing oversight within networks while adhering mandated standards.

With a $10 million investment from Murphy Administration in 2023 improving efforts safeguarding state communities highlights commitment from Governor Phil Murphy Legislature Attorney General Office NJSP ensuring safety security residents visitors alike.