Spokane, Wash. – In a statement released Tuesday, the Spokane Police Department (SPD) emphasized that it does not own or operate any Flock cameras or Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) in the city. The department said residents who see cameras around town should not assume they are part of a surveillance network run by SPD.
What cameras does SPD actually use?
SPD confirmed that the City of Spokane employs two types of traffic‑enforcement cameras:
- 19 “Photo‑Red” cameras that capture vehicles running red lights.
- 11 “Photo‑Speed” cameras that record vehicles exceeding the speed limit in school zones.
None of these devices contain ALPR components, and they are solely focused on traffic violations.
Privacy safeguards
When a violation is detected, SPD follows a strict validation process before any image or video is reviewed by law‑enforcement personnel. The initial review includes a short video of the alleged red‑light or speed violation and a still image of the vehicle’s rear. No photographs of occupants are taken, and Washington state law expressly prohibits the use of these videos or images for any purpose other than traffic enforcement.
Why the clarification now?
Recent changes in Washington state legislation have tightened guidelines for the use of Flock and ALPR technology. Several law‑enforcement agencies in the Spokane area have ended contracts with Flock as a result. The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office terminated its Flock contract in March, though some Flock cameras were still observed in the county by local media in September.
SPD’s statement aims to reassure the public that its own traffic‑camera program operates within the bounds of state law and respects privacy, while also distinguishing its equipment from the now‑defunct Flock and ALPR systems.
What this means for residents
Drivers should be aware that the Photo‑Red and Photo‑Speed cameras are intended to improve safety at intersections and school zones, reducing the risk of accidents caused by red‑light running and speeding. The cameras do not track license plates or capture personal identifiers, and any footage is used only after a formal validation step.
Community members with questions about the cameras or the validation process are encouraged to contact the Spokane Police Department directly.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
