Ramona, CA — Residents in Ramona recently voiced concerns regarding the use of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) to the Ramona Community Planning Group. The debate, which focused on privacy and data security, came up during a September 3 meeting, as the San Diego Union-Tribune reported. While ALPRs were not a scheduled agenda item, two community members addressed the group, prompting a response from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.
For drivers, understanding where these cameras are located and how they are used is key to navigating public roads. FlockDetour tracks these installations to keep you informed. You can find more information about how these systems operate on our /learn page.
What privacy concerns do Ramona residents have about ALPRs?
Ramona resident William “Bill” Adelson highlighted a distinction between cell phone data tracking and ALPR data collection. He argued that while cell phone users consent to data sharing, drivers do not explicitly consent to ALPR surveillance. Adelson also pointed out potential inaccuracies in ALPR technology:
- ALPRs read analog license plate data.
- This translation from analog to digital could lead to errors.
- Mistakes might result in incorrect identification, such as a '3' being read as an '8'.
Another resident, Dave Patterson, expressed worries about data security and potential misuse. Patterson specifically asked for:
- A “top down review of ALPRs” by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors.
- ALPR cameras to be disabled until more information on their use is provided.
- Clarification on data handling, storage, and access, including potential sharing with federal agencies.
How did the Sheriff's Department respond to these concerns?
Ramona Sheriff’s Lt. Scott Roller addressed the residents’ concerns, stating that ALPR technology has been in use for approximately 20 years. He clarified the purpose and limitations of the six ALPR cameras currently installed in three public Ramona locations.
- Cameras track vehicles entering and exiting Ramona.
- They are used to narrow down suspects in investigations, such as stolen property cases.
- ALPRs do not record 24/7 video; they capture images of license plates.
- A deputy must verify any image and link it to a crime.
Lt. Roller also emphasized internal safeguards for data access. He stated that law enforcement officers must log in to view license plate data, creating a traceable link to their inquiry. Misconduct, such as entering incorrect plate or case numbers, could lead to internal investigations and potential termination. He also noted that Senate Bill 34 prohibits the sharing of ALPR data with federal or out-of-state agencies, ensuring that "the information the Sheriff’s harvest from it is the Sheriff’s information." Only the Sheriff’s command can approve data release.
Following Lt. Roller's responses, the Ramona Community Planning Group Chairperson, Lauren Elyse Welty, indicated that the ALPR topic would not be added to the October meeting agenda, as the concerns were addressed at the September meeting.