MCPA Statement on the Use of Automated License Plate Readers

Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) are an increasingly common public safety tool in Minnesota, building on license plate recognition technology that law enforcement has used in various forms for decades. 

The Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association (MCPA) supports their responsible use by Minnesota law enforcement agencies when appropriate safeguards, oversight, and accountability are in place.

Public Safety Benefits

ALPR technology is a valuable investigative resource for law enforcement agencies across Minnesota.

• Locating missing and endangered people. ALPR data can help locate vehicles associated with missing children and vulnerable adults.
  
  
• Enhancing officer safety. ALPR information can help officers make more informed decisions when approaching vehicles associated with serious offenses.
  
  
• Supporting criminal investigations. ALPR data can help identify vehicles, establish timelines, and develop or rule out investigative leads.
  
  
• Locating stolen vehicles and recovering property. ALPR alerts can help officers quickly identify and locate stolen vehicles.
  
  
• Identifying wanted individuals. Real-time alerts can help officers locate vehicles associated with wanted individuals.

These uses support the core mission of Minnesota law enforcement agencies: protecting the lives and property of the people and communities they serve.

Privacy, Accountability, and Public Trust

MCPA recognizes that ALPR technology raises legitimate questions about privacy, data retention, access, information sharing, and government surveillance. These concerns deserve thoughtful consideration. MCPA's support for ALPR technology is grounded in a commitment to constitutional policing, individual privacy, and public trust.

MCPA supports policies and practices that include:

• Restricted access and appropriate use. ALPR access should be limited to authorized personnel for legitimate law enforcement purposes.
  
  
• Data retention and accountability. Agencies should retain, delete, and audit data in accordance with Minnesota law and agency policy.
  
  
• Transparency. Agencies should clearly communicate how they use, retain, access, and share ALPR technology and data.
  
  
• Compliance with Minnesota law. Agencies should fully comply with Minnesota laws governing ALPR use and data.
  
  
• Ongoing review. Agencies should regularly review ALPR policies, security, access controls, and data-sharing practices as technology evolves.

Public Dialogue and Local Decision-Making

Minnesota's communities and law enforcement agencies are diverse, and decisions about public safety technology should reflect local needs, priorities, and circumstances. MCPA supports police chiefs as they work with their communities and local leaders to determine whether and how tools such as ALPRs can best serve the people they protect. These conversations are an important part of local decision-making and building public trust.

When used under clear policies, strong oversight, and in full compliance with Minnesota law, ALPR technology is a valuable and appropriate public safety tool. MCPA is committed to promoting its responsible use while protecting both public safety and the privacy of the people of Minnesota.

Resources

For information on Minnesota laws governing ALPR use, see Minnesota Statutes 13.824 (Automated License Plate Readers) and 626.8472 (Automated License Plate Reader Policy).

For additional ALPR information, resources, and best practices, visit the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) ALPR Resource Page.