ALPR Transparency
Overview
Schoolcraft College utilizes Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology as part of its campus safety and law enforcement operations. ALPR technology assists the Schoolcraft College Police Department in furthering legitimate public safety objectives, including criminal investigations, locating stolen vehicles, identifying vehicles associated with public safety threats, assisting with missing person investigations, and supporting other lawful law enforcement activities.
The College is committed to using this technology responsibly, lawfully, and in a manner that respects privacy, civil liberties, and constitutional rights.
What Is ALPR Technology?
Automated License Plate Reader technology uses cameras and software to capture images of vehicle license plates and convert those images into searchable license plate data.
ALPR systems generally capture:
- License plate numbers
- Date and time of observation
- Location of the camera
- Vehicle characteristics observable from the image
- Photographic images associated with the vehicle encounter
The system does not collect information regarding the identity of a vehicle owner. Any association between a license plate and a registered owner requires access to separate government databases that are subject to legal restrictions.
Why Does Schoolcraft College Use ALPR Technology?
The College uses ALPR technology to support lawful campus safety and law enforcement purposes, including:
- Investigating criminal activity occurring on or affecting campus
- Identifying stolen vehicles
- Locating vehicles associated with criminal investigations
- Assisting in missing person investigations
- Supporting emergency response and public safety operations
- Enhancing situational awareness for campus police officers
The College does not use ALPR technology for commercial purposes, revenue generation, generalized surveillance of lawful activities, or the monitoring of individuals based solely upon protected characteristics.
Legal Authority
The Schoolcraft College Police Department is an authorized law enforcement agency operating under Michigan law. Consistent with applicable law, the Department may utilize ALPR technology as a law enforcement tool in support of its public safety mission.
The College’s use of ALPR technology is governed by:
- Contractual requirements applicable to the ALPR technology provider
- Applicable federal and state law
- Schoolcraft College policies and procedures
- Schoolcraft College Police Department operational policies
Privacy and Civil Rights Protections
Schoolcraft College recognizes the importance of privacy and civil liberties.
The College prohibits the use of ALPR technology for purposes that are unlawful, discriminatory, retaliatory, or unrelated to legitimate public safety and law enforcement functions.
The technology may not be used solely on the basis of:
- Race
- Ethnicity
- National origin
- Religion
- Gender
- Sexual orientation
- Disability
- Political affiliation
- Other legally protected classifications
Users of the system must complete required training and are subject to departmental oversight and auditing.
Data Access and Security
Access to ALPR information is restricted to authorized personnel with a legitimate business or law enforcement need.
The College employs administrative, technical, and physical safeguards designed to protect ALPR information from unauthorized access, misuse, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.
Access to ALPR records is logged and subject to audit and review.
Data Sharing
ALPR information may be shared when authorized by law and consistent with applicable policies and agreements.
Information may be available to:
- Authorized Schoolcraft College Police Department personnel
- Other law enforcement agencies with a legitimate law enforcement purpose
- Government entities as required by law
- Courts or legal authorities pursuant to lawful process
The College does not sell ALPR data or permit commercial exploitation of ALPR information.
Data Retention
ALPR records are retained in accordance with applicable law, contractual requirements, operational needs, and College policy.
Retention periods may vary depending upon whether the information becomes part of a criminal investigation, legal proceeding, public safety matter, or records retention requirement.
Oversight and Accountability
The College maintains governance and oversight mechanisms concerning ALPR technology, including:
- Administrative review and approval processes
- Written policies and procedures
- User training requirements
- Access controls and audit logging
- Compliance monitoring
- Periodic review of system use and practices
The Chief of Police and designated College administrators are responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable legal and policy requirements.
Technology Provider
Schoolcraft College currently utilizes ALPR technology provided through Flock Safety.
The College’s use of any vendor-provided services remains subject to College policies, contractual safeguards, and applicable legal requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ALPR technology identify drivers or passengers?
No. ALPR technology captures information associated with vehicles and license plates. It does not independently identify the driver or passengers of a vehicle.
Does the College track the movements of individual people?
No. The system is used for lawful public safety and law enforcement purposes. The College does not use ALPR technology for generalized monitoring of lawful activities.
Are College employees constantly watching ALPR cameras?
No. The technology automatically captures and processes information. Access to records is limited to authorized personnel for legitimate purposes.
Can members of the public request ALPR records?
Requests for records are reviewed under applicable law. Certain records may be exempt from disclosure because of privacy, law enforcement, public safety, or security considerations.
How can I submit questions about ALPR technology?
Questions regarding Schoolcraft College’s use of ALPR technology may be directed to:
Schoolcraft College Police Department
18600 Haggerty Road
Livonia, Michigan 48152
734-462-4424
Related Documents
FOIA Public Records Request Information
Schoolcraft College Police Department ALPR Policy
Schoolcraft College Privacy Resources
Board Policy: Automated License Plate Reader Technology (COMING SOON)
