New Jersey releases 2024 audit of license plate reader data; two significant violations identified
TRENTON, N.J. — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan on Monday announced the release of the 2024 Audit of Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) Data, reaffirming the state’s commitment to transparency and responsible use of crime-fighting technology.
The audit covers ALPR data collected and used by more than 500 law enforcement agencies statewide. ALPR systems assist law enforcement in recovering stolen vehicles, identifying suspects in violent crimes, and tracking missing persons through systems like Amber and Silver Alerts.
“This audit demonstrates New Jersey’s dedication to using important investigative technologies responsibly and ethically,” Platkin said. “ALPR technology is critical in our efforts to combat crime. We have made smart and rigorous oversight of these tools and commitment to transparency an essential part of how we keep New Jerseyans safe.”
Platkin also criticized recent federal funding cuts, noting the U.S. Department of Justice plans to withdraw more than $1 million intended for expanding ALPR use in areas with high rates of bias incidents. He warned that the move could put public safety at risk.
According to the 2024 audit, 523 law enforcement agencies submitted certifications to the State ALPR Coordinator. Two significant violations were identified, both involving authorized users who had not completed required training under the NJ SNAP program. No data misuse or privacy breaches were reported, and immediate corrective action was taken.
The audit reflects new reforms that expanded random sample sizes, required comprehensive review of all ALPR activities, and introduced independent verification procedures by State Police to test the validity of ALPR searches. These updates aim to ensure integrity and accountability across all agencies participating in the ALPR program.
Colonel Callahan emphasized that ALPR remains “an essential asset in modern policing,” providing real-time intelligence while safeguarding individual privacy.
The audit follows Law Enforcement Directive 2022-12, which strengthened oversight and standardized ALPR data-sharing statewide. For the full report, visit the 2024 NJ SNAP ALPR Audit Report.
