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Evanston renews contract for License Plate Readers, which one critic calls 'spy cameras'

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Evanston leaders have approved a new contract to operate License Plate Readers around the city's borders to collect data on cars entering and leaving the city, but officials insist there are guardrails to protect motorists.

Evanston Police say the data has been used for several important investigations, such as identifying vehicles involved in hit-and-run traffic crashes and other major crimes.


Evanston Police say the data has been used for several important investigations, such as identifying vehicles involved in hit-and-run traffic crashes and other major crimes.

Speaking at a recent City Council meeting at which the contract was approved, Police Cmdr. Ryan Glew said the automated cameras do not track women who are coming from other states for reproductive services. Nor are they used to investigate immigration status, he said.

But one resident, David Sutherland, called the readers "spy cameras" and urged council members not to renew the contract.

The vote was unanimous, however, to continue the contract with FLOCK Safety for five years at a cost of $48,500 per year.

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