University at Buffalo (UB)
The safety and security of UB’s campuses — and the privacy of our campus communities — are always among the university’s highest priorities. As part of an effort to continually assess and enhance the security and safety of the university campus community, UB is evaluating a pilot program that would install automated license plate readers (LPRs) at campus entrances and exits to assist University Police in solving criminal investigations.
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They are cameras that capture license-plate information and vehicle characteristics to help accelerate investigations, identify suspect vehicles and assist in locating people involved in criminal activity.
UB is evaluating them as a security tool to help University Police investigate and solve campus crimes involving vehicles, including vehicle thefts, larcenies and hit-and-run accidents, as part of a broader effort to mitigate campus safety risks.
No. The cameras will be utilized for the collection of license-plate information and vehicle characteristics.
UB proposes installing 20 solar-powered Flock Safety license plate readers for a 60-day trial.
They are proposed for entrances and exits on the North and South campuses. The specific locations have not yet been determined.
No. However, since fall 2023, UB Parking and Transportation has used vehicle-mounted, roof-mounted LPR cameras in its parking-enforcement vehicles for the virtual parking-tag initiative.
UB recognizes public concern about how personal privacy is affected by LPR technology. The university will establish appropriate safeguards, access restrictions and internal controls.
Access will be limited to only specific UPD investigators. In addition, UB Police will conduct routine internal audits to ensure the technology is being used as lawfully intended.
Other agencies would not have unfettered access: UB would opt out of Flock’s national database option. Data could be shared only in limited, controlled circumstances for legitimate public-safety purposes with local law-enforcement agencies; that access would be permission-based, auditable and limited to relevant investigations.
Data would automatically delete after seven days by default, unless otherwise stipulated by UB Police for investigative purposes.
No, Under Executive Order 170, New York State agencies are prohibited from assisting federal immigration for the purpose of civil immigration enforcement. This specifically includes resources and equipment such as LPRs. Further, 2019’s Green Light Law prohibits New York State agencies from assisting federal immigration enforcement by sharing DMV driver or vehicle related data.
To be determined - This is a 60-day trial period during which time University Police will evaluate the benefits of LPRs in solving crimes more efficiently.
A timeline for the trial installation has not yet been determined.
Yes, including other SUNY institutions, as do many local municipalities. LPR cameras have helped law enforcement nationally in campus-shooting and other criminal investigation.