BOONSBORO, Md. — The Boonsboro Police Department is responding to recent public discussion about its use of license plate readers, emphasizing the technology’s role as a targeted investigative tool rather than a form of mass surveillance.
In a public statement, the department outlined several common misconceptions about the system, often associated with the company Flock Safety, and provided clarification on how the technology is used.
Police officials said the cameras are designed to capture license plates and basic vehicle characteristics to assist in identifying vehicles linked to reported crimes. The system does not identify drivers or passengers, record audio or track individuals’ daily movements.
“The cameras’ only role is to record license plates and vehicle characteristics as they pass by,” the department stated, noting that courts have consistently ruled there is no reasonable expectation of privacy for vehicles traveling on public roadways.
Concerns about unrestricted access to the data were also addressed. According to the department, access is limited to authorized personnel and must be used strictly for legitimate law enforcement purposes. While outside agencies may request searches, those requests must include a valid case number and meet legal standards.
Police said no other agencies have direct access to the system or its data.
Officials also pointed to measurable outcomes since the cameras were installed, including assistance in solving cases involving retail theft, hit-and-run incidents, vandalism and traffic offenses. The system has also been used in efforts involving missing persons alerts and stolen vehicles.
The department framed the technology as part of a broader landscape of everyday data collection, comparing it to tools such as navigation apps, toll systems and security cameras. Police said the goal remains focused on public safety.
Questions about public input were also addressed. Department officials said the program was discussed during open council meetings and documented in publicly available meeting minutes, with no residents speaking out or requesting additional information at the time.
“Our commitment is straightforward: ensure Boonsboro is the safest community in Washington County,” the department said.
