Chicago Sun-Times reported that the Chicago Police Department is conducting an audit to determine whether officers abused their access to other law enforcement agencies' license plate reader systems. The department has already cut access to those outside systems for some officers and has proposed a new directive with tighter rules.
The audit is the latest internal inquiry at a local agency. In October, a former Joliet police lieutenant was hit with felony charges for alleged misuse of Flock technology. Officers in Itasca, West Chicago, Prairie Grove and Kenosha County, Wisconsin, have also faced felony charges over alleged misuse.
What has Chicago police already changed?
The department says it reduced access to outside systems to officers whose "position and job duties" require it. Other changes are still proposed:
- Each of the five bureaus would designate someone to oversee plate reader use, covering both department systems and outside ones.
- Login credentials would not be transferable, so only one member could use a given login.
- Every query would need a documented "legitimate law enforcement purpose."
- Monthly audits of searches would be conducted.
- The Office of Public Safety Administration would handle officer requests for access to outside systems.
- Penalties range from suspension from the search systems to referral for prosecution.
What is still unknown?
The department did not answer questions about what started the audit. It also did not say when later audits will be finished. Earlier, it said the technology plays a "vital role" in homicide, shooting and missing persons cases. Mayor Brandon Johnson's office declined to comment because the audit is ongoing.
What changes for drivers?
The proposed directive governs how Chicago officers access plate reader systems, including outside ones. It does not describe any camera removals or contract cancellations. The Sun-Times doesn't say how plate reads are stored or deleted under the new directive, so drivers can't tell from the story whether their plates would be affected.
The rules are still a draft, so nothing here is final.
When is the next deadline?
Public comment on the draft policy closes Nov. 12. The same day, the Will County Board is set to consider an ordinance to ban automated license plate reader cameras on county property.
Check where cameras are mapped near you on the camera map, and read how plate readers work for background on what these systems record.