Overview 

Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) technology provides law enforcement agencies with a sophisticated, real-time tool for enhancing public safety, reducing crime, and improving operational efficiency. By automatically reading license plates from vehicles, ALPR systems help officers identify suspects, locate stolen vehicles, and detect threats while on patrol or monitoring fixed locations.

How does it work?

ALPR systems capture license plate images from moving or stationary vehicles using high-resolution cameras installed on patrol cars or at fixed points such as intersections and parking lots. The system then compares these plates against a database of hotlists, including stolen vehicles, wanted suspects, Silver Alerts (lost elderly persons), Amber Alerts (missing endangered youth), and other law enforcement alerts. Matches trigger instant notifications to officers, helping them respond quickly.

BPD will NOT be using ALPRs for traffic violations or citations. Use will be limited to crimes such as homicides, shootings, robberies, arsons, sexual assaults, burglaries, aggravated batteries, stolen cars, etc.

By integrating ALPR technology, we can enhance our ability to respond to incidents, solve crimes faster, and keep Bloomington safer. ALPR systems offer a powerful, data-driven tool for modern law enforcement operations.

What happens to the data?

Once the photos are taken, the data is then uploaded and encrypted in a cloud server. Data from these cameras is encrypted and stored in an FBI CJIS compliant cloud server for a maximum of 30 days. If a case is generated, the capture will be downloaded to the corresponding criminal case.

Data is not sold or monetized.

 Click Here To Read The BPD ALPR Policy