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Court: ALPR Camera Images Are Public Records
18 Nov
Summary
- Images from license plate cameras are public records.
- Vendor-stored data can be subject to public records laws.
- Ruling affects how cities manage surveillance data retention.
A Skagit County Superior Court judge has determined that images captured by Flock Safety automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras qualify as public records under Washington's Public Records Act. This landmark ruling signifies that data stored by third-party vendors is not exempt from public disclosure, even when documenting activity on public roads.
The case originated when a Washington resident requested ALPR images from the city of Stanwood. The city and its neighbor, Sedro-Woolley, contended that vendor-stored data was not a public record. However, Judge Elizabeth Yost Neidzwski rejected this argument, stating the images support a government purpose and meet the definition of a public record.
This decision compels local agencies to reassess how they store, retain, and provide access to surveillance data. Privacy advocates see it as a crucial step for transparency, while law enforcement groups emphasize the need to protect ongoing investigations. The ruling highlights the growing tension between surveillance technology use and public access rights under state law.
