GEORGETOWN, Del. - Automated license plate recognition cameras used by Georgetown police and other departments are drawing debate over privacy and public safety.
Flock cameras record license plate numbers and other identifying details, including bumper stickers. The Georgetown Police Department says it has five cameras under its direct supervision and has used the technology for several years.
Lt. Matthew Barlow with the Georgetown Police Department said officers typically use the cameras while investigating crimes.
"There are certain instances. For instance, I was working patrol a couple of years ago, and we actually got a notification for a stolen motor vehicle because another agency that utilizes flock had put the vehicle into the system, so we got a we got an alert, so we were able to locate that vehicle and apprehend the suspects," Barlow said.
The cameras have become controversial in recent months as some people question whether the technology amounts to unnecessary surveillance of the public.
"Take all of them down. We don't need them," Helena Richards, who lives in Seaford, said.
Others see the public safety benefit.
"I think it's a better chance for the police, the authorities, to find people that are breaking the law and be helpful for everybody," Lynne Onkow said.
The Georgetown Police Department says internal audits are used to make sure officers are searching the system for legitimate law enforcement purposes.
"I hope that folks understand that that we are certainly utilizing this technology for legitimate purposes. We're not trying to encroach upon people's rights, civil rights or other. We certainly wouldn't do that, and we are holding our officers accountable, and making sure that that their searches are done properly in the right way," Barlow said.
The department told CoastTV News that a sixth Flock camera is planned within Georgetown town limits. Police are waiting to coordinate the installation with the company.
