TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Tallahassee police and Leon County sheriff\u2019s deputies are giving the public a new way to see how automated license plate reader technology is being used locally, launching online transparency portals for the Flock system.<\/p>\n
The Tallahassee Police Department and Leon County Sheriff\u2019s Office portals are designed to serve as centralized resources where community members can review information about each agency\u2019s use of automated license plate readers, including data related to reads, searches and hits. The sites also include frequently asked questions intended to explain the information presented and provide additional context about the technology and its use.<\/p>\n
Automated license plate reader technology captures images of license plates as vehicles pass cameras. The technology can help law enforcement locate vehicles associated with criminal investigations, missing or endangered persons and other law enforcement purposes.<\/p>\n
Both agencies also said they have implemented policies governing the professional and appropriate use of the technology. The policies include accountability measures such as audit trails and oversight of system access and use, aimed at ensuring the technology is used for legitimate law enforcement purposes.<\/p>\n
\u201cTechnology continues to play an important role in how we keep our community safe, but with that comes a responsibility to be transparent about the tools we use and how we use them,\u201d Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell said. \u201cThis portal gives our community greater access to that information and provides another opportunity for us to build understanding and trust with the people we serve.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cTechnology is most effective when the community understands not only how we use it, but why we use it. License plate reader technology gives our deputies another tool to help locate missing persons, identify vehicles connected to criminal activity, and advance investigations,\u201d Sheriff Walt McNeil said. \u201cBy making this information publicly accessible, we are reinforcing our commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible use of technology in keeping Leon County safe.\u201d<\/p>\n
Community members are encouraged to explore each agency\u2019s portal and review the frequently asked questions for more information.<\/p>\n
Tallahassee Police Department Transparency Portal: https:\/\/transparency.flocksafety.com\/tallahassee-fl-pd<\/a><\/p>\n