Virginia Crime Commission Report: 10% of Police Agencies Self-Report Unauthorized License Plate Reader Use

Courthouse News reports that Virginia legislators met Thursday to review a report commissioned by the Virginia State Crime Commission on automated license plate reader use. The survey covered 191 local law enforcement agencies using the technology as of August, and 10% self-reported unauthorized use. Six agencies said they had no required policy, 33% of the 178 with policies did not post them publicly as required, and seven reported retention periods beyond the 21-day maximum. Misuse by law enforcement is a class 1 misdemeanor, but prosecutors have charged only seven officers, according to the outlet. State Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell said stronger consequences may be needed for agencies that do not follow the law. The ACLU of Virginia and the Institute for Justice urged a ban or warrant requirements. No agency responses were reported.