Automated License Plate Readers Coming To Wheaton

WHEATON, IL — Wheaton police recently announced that they will use automated license plate readers (ALPRs) throughout the city to help identify cars linked to crimes, missing person reports and other incidents.

The readers use high-resolution cameras to photograph the back of cars that pass. Each picture snaps the car's rear license plate and its color, make and model. A news release said the readers do not measure speed or retain personal information about people in the car.

City officials say data processed by the automated license plate readers will be encrypted and will only be shared with other law enforcement departments or federal immigration agencies. Data that is not part of an active investigation will be deleted after a period of 30 days.

The update from the City of Wheaton said, "ALPRs will serve as another tool supporting the City Council’s Community Safety Strategic Priority, leveraging technology to prioritize the safety and welfare of our community."