November 1, 2022
The Skokie Police Department will soon install 12 automated license plate reading (ALPR) cameras in strategic areas around the community to solve and reduce crime. The cameras will be used to help prevent and investigate crime by providing objective evidence, including license plate numbers and vehicle characteristics.
To proactively prevent crime from occurring, the cameras send a real-time alert to the Skokie Police Department when data from a stolen car or known wanted suspect from a state or national crime database is detected in the community. In addition, the cameras can send alerts if a vehicle associated with an AMBER or Silver Alert is detected.
The Skokie Police Department will maintain an updated policy around usage of the ALPR system. Each search requires a justification, and the data is never sold or shared with third parties. Data is only retained for thirty days and then permanently deleted. The cameras will be used to solve and reduce property and violent crime and will not be used for enforcement of minor traffic or parking violations.
“The ALPR system is one of the most important technology developments in many years, and it will greatly enhance the Skokie Police Department’s ability to prevent and solve crime,” said Police Chief Brian Baker.
These cameras, purchased from Flock Safety with grant funds from the Cook County Urban Area Security Initiative, are used by thousands of law enforcement agencies in over 2,000 cities across 40 states.