San Diego Could Ban License Plate Cameras Amid Privacy Concerns

-Editorial

San Diego could soon eliminate its network of automated license plate reader cameras as growing concerns over government surveillance, personal privacy, and potential federal immigration enforcement access reshape the city’s approach to public safety technology.

The City Council’s Budget and Government Efficiency Committee voted unanimously, 4-0, to advance a proposal that would end the city’s use of Flock Safety cameras and require the deletion of stored license plate data.

The measure is expected to reach the full City Council later this year or in early 2027.

The decision marks a significant shift in the debate over automated license plate readers, commonly known as ALPRs, which police use to identify vehicles associated with criminal investigations, recover stolen property and locate missing people.

Councilmembers Stephen Whitburn and Henry Foster III shifted their positions to oppose the cameras, citing concerns about community trust, surveillance, and the possibility that collected information could become accessible to federal immigration authorities.

The changes have strengthened opposition to the program, placing its future in question.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria criticized the committee’s decision, warning that eliminating the cameras would weaken the Police Department’s investigative capabilities.

“Automated License Plate Readers are helping San Diego police solve serious crimes, recover stolen vehicles and property, and locate missing people,” Gloria said. “Taking this proven tool away from our officers would be a serious mistake and a step backward for public safety.”

Gloria defended the city’s existing privacy safeguards, including independent reviews, audits, and public reporting requirements established under San Diego’s TRUST Ordinance, adopted in 2022.

He urged councilmembers to preserve the program and maintain the oversight system already in place.

San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl also opposed the proposed ban, saying the technology has assisted officers in more than 900 criminal investigations.

“We don’t have to guess whether ALPR helps solve crimes,” Wahl said. “We’ve seen it work in more than 900 cases, from stolen vehicles and kidnappings to murders.”

Wahl argued that removing the cameras would not resolve concerns about police staffing, immigration enforcement or municipal budget pressures.

Privacy concerns have intensified as communities nationwide question how surveillance information is collected, retained and shared among law enforcement agencies.

Opponents of the technology have expressed particular concern about whether license plate data could be used in federal immigration investigations, potentially affecting immigrant families and discouraging cooperation with local authorities.

Supporters maintain that existing restrictions and oversight mechanisms can protect personal information while preserving an investigative resource.

The committee’s recommendation does not immediately terminate the program. Final approval would require a vote by the full City Council.