Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan have released the 2024 Audit of Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) Data, which reviews how law enforcement agencies in New Jersey use ALPR technology.
The audit highlights the role of ALPRs in supporting law enforcement activities such as identifying and recovering stolen vehicles, disrupting auto theft networks, apprehending suspects involved in vehicle theft or violent crimes, and locating missing persons through Amber and Silver alerts.
“This audit demonstrates New Jersey’s dedication to using important investigative technologies responsibly and ethically,” said Attorney General Platkin. “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 noted that the U.S. Department of Justice recently informed the state it would reclaim over $1 million intended for installing more ALPRs in areas with higher reported bias incidents. He stated, “ALPRs not only help law enforcement track stolen vehicles, but they are a critical tool in driving down violent crimes and hate crimes because we know that too often auto theft and violent crime are linked. I will not stand by and allow the residents of New Jersey to be put in danger or allow critical tools to be taken away from our law enforcement officers by reckless federal funding cuts.”
Colonel Callahan commented on the findings: “The 2024 Audit of Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) Data reaffirms our commitment to transparency and the responsible use of technology to enhance public safety. ALPR is an essential asset in modern policing, providing real-time intelligence that significantly enhances our ability to combat crime. When used responsibly and in accordance with guidelines, this technology helps us protect our communities more effectively while safeguarding individual privacy.”
In October 2022, Attorney General Platkin issued a directive updating previous guidelines on ALPR use dating back to 2010. The updated directive established the position of State ALPR Coordinator to oversee New Jersey’s Statewide Networked ALPR Program (NJ SNAP). Under this policy, NJSP manages statewide audits and sets related policies for all law enforcement agencies.
Before conducting this year’s audit, NJSP implemented reforms designed to strengthen audit practices by requiring broader data review for non-compliance evidence and independent sample audits by both local agencies and NJSP staff. Changes included increasing random sample sizes for auditing, ensuring comprehensive coverage across all types of ALPR activity, reviewing samples for search validity, certifying user authorization and training compliance, as well as instituting independent NJSP reviews of certifications.
As reflected in the 2024 results, 523 law enforcement agencies submitted certifications; two significant violations were found along with one citizen complaint. Significant violations involved authorized users who had not completed required training under the NJ SNAP program's directive—corrective action was promptly taken in both cases. There were no reports involving misuse or breaches of data privacy.
The updated directive maintains measures aimed at preventing abuse while protecting privacy by restricting access to personal information unless there is a specific need identified by law enforcement authorities. It also standardizes sharing practices across agencies statewide.
To read the full 2024 NJ SNAP ALPR Audit Report please click .
