If you think the cost of an ALPR camera will be just a few hundred dollars (or less), think again. These high-powered cameras come with sophisticated software, and also require a place to store the massive amount of information they collect.
The average cost for a single ALPR camera is around $20,000 to $25,000. On top of that, you'll need to pay for software, database setup and maintenance fees. For example, Vigilant Solutions charges around $1,700 per month for using its database. If your city decides to go with Vigilant's system, expect to spend at least $20,400 in the first year alone for each camera and its related software and maintenance fees—and that doesn't even include installation costs or any other equipment outlays (like servers).
Keep in mind all these costs are per camera; if you want multiple cameras on multiple streets or thoroughfares throughout your town or city—well—you do the math!
What about privacy issues?
Privacy concerns regarding ALPR technology are primarily focused on the automated recording, retention, and sharing of data related to vehicle movement. Some people have their photos taken while driving; police could take action against them based on this data, and then the photos could be made available to the public.
ALPR cameras are useful for law enforcement but should be used with oversight.
If you're unfamiliar with ALPR cameras, they are high-speed cameras mounted on police cars that automatically capture photos of the license plate of every car it passes. The photos are then stored in a database along with the time and location of where the photo was captured. Law enforcement officials can then use the database to see if a vehicle's whereabouts at a specific time match up with any crimes that occurred around there. For example, an officer can search the database for vehicles that were in a particular area at the same time as a murder occurred, and then cross-reference their list with drivers who have a criminal record. If they find anyone who has both, they may consider them as potential suspects.
It should be noted that ALPR cameras have been criticized as unnecessarily invasive due to their ability to track people's movements without their permission or knowledge. While ALPR cameras help law enforcement investigate crimes by providing what is essentially an electronic trail for vehicles, some say it also allows them to easily track citizen movements even when no crime has been committed—something traditionally only possible through physical surveillance (for which law enforcement needs probable cause). Critics also warn against allowing this technology to be used too broadly because it can lead to racial profiling by targeting certain neighborhoods over others or by stopping drivers based on their race instead of actual evidence.
As Americans continue to come under increased surveillance in order to protect against terrorist attacks, many worry about how much personal freedom they're willing to give up in exchange for safety and security from potential threats such as these.