Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Carlos G. Bolanos, Sheriff
Subject: Informational Report - Automated License Plate Readers in Ladera
RECOMMENDATION:
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Recommendation to accept this informational report related to the installation of an Automated License Plate Reader(s) in Ladera, unincorporated San Mateo County.
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BACKGROUND:
Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) are cameras that house Optical Character Readers (OCRs) designed to read and store license plate data. The most common ALPR system is found at bridge toll crossings. However, law enforcement is finding other valuable uses for these systems.
Locally, the cities of Daly City, Hayward, Menlo Park, Redwood City, San Mateo, Los Altos, Los Gatos, Mountain View, Palo Alto, San Carlos and many others use ALPR technology in their communities.
DISCUSSION:
Portola Valley has recently made a decision to deploy ALPRs in their community. This issue of ALPR technology was brought to their Town Council as result of several high profile burglary cases and two home invasion robberies that have occurred over the last several years. The Ladera community has also expressed their interest in ALPR technology. They feel vulnerable to the same crimes that happened in Portola Valley and are concerned that if that town is protected by ALPRs and Ladera is not, criminals who are aware of this might shift their activities toward Ladera.
Based on the success that ALPR technology is having and on the recent move by Portola Valley to install the system in their community, the Sheriff's Office recommends deployment of two cameras on Alpine Road leading into and out of Ladera.
Federal and State courts have found that there is no legitimate expectation of privacy with respect to license plate data. However, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and other organizations have expressed concern about the technology. Some o...
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