License Plate Reader Searches Should Require a Warrant

A criminology expert argues that searches of historical automated license plate reader (ALPR) data should require a warrant, drawing parallels to cell phone location data which already requires warrants under current law. While the author supports police use of technology and acknowledges cameras can reduce crime cost-effectively, he contends that as surveillance becomes ubiquitous, warrant requirements for historical searches will eventually be mandated—a change that won't impede legitimate investigations but will prevent abuse. He advocates for states to establish warrant procedures through legislation rather than waiting for courts to eventually impose them.