Multiple rallies opposing the local use of Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) cameras are taking place across Connecticut today.
Surveillance Off Our Streets Campaign Day of Action rallies are taking place at various times and locations throughout the day. Some of the rallies are being held in Norwalk, New Haven, Bristol, West Hartford and Windsor Locks.
The rallies hosted by several groups including the CT Civil Liberties Defense Committee, come as privacy advocates say the use of the ALPRs, most notably made by Flock Safety, a tech surveillance company, risks their right to privacy. Anti-surveillance activists have previously highlighted security risks associated with the cameras.
Connecticut’s legislature passed additional restrictions on ALPRs earlier this year, including reducing the amount of days police could retain data from the cameras.
The Police Officer Standards and Training Council (POSTC) has also issued additional guidelines calling for even shorter retention times, and additional user authorization controls.
However, local police departments have faced sustained pressure to stop using the cameras this year. The ALPRs and separate automated speed camera program gained statewide attention into the summer especially in the city of Milford.
Some municipalities such as Fairfield do not use Flock’s cameras but use competitors like Axon for their ALPR cameras.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Connecticut (ACLU) has previously stated it would advocate for further restrictions during the state’s next legislative session.
