Surveillance technology sparks privacy debates in West Virginia and Pennsylvania

Residents in parts of Pennsylvania and West Virginia are expressing growing concerns regarding the use of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) and AI-powered surveillance technology.

In Monongalia County, West Virginia, residents from across the political spectrum have raised questions about the privacy implications of Flock Safety cameras. Critics argue that the automated nature of these systems allows for the harvesting of data on individuals who have not been accused of crimes. The technology uses AI to identify vehicle information and make it searchable for law enforcement.

In Oakmont, Pennsylvania, Police Chief Michael Ford addressed local concerns by clarifying that the borough utilizes standard ALPRs rather than the more controversial AI-powered Flock cameras. Ford noted that the existing cameras in Oakmont capture vehicle movement but are not capable of facial recognition or identifying drivers. These devices are part of a larger initiative overseen by the Allegheny County District Attorney, which has installed over 3,000 readers in the region since 2016.