EUGENE, Ore. — The rollout of AI-powered license plate readers in Eugene and Springfield is sparking debate over privacy and public safety. Eugene Police Department has is in the process of deploying 57 cameras, while 25 are soon to be installed in Springfield.
Law enforcement officials say these cameras are a helpful tool in fighting crime. The new technology allows them to quickly gather evidence and track down vehicles involved in criminal activities. The cameras are designed to scan rear license plates and vehicle details, not faces, and are strategically placed on major roads and city entrances.
“The idea behind it is to allow us to gain objective evidence in a case that can bThe idea behind it is to allow us to gain objective evidence in a case that can be used against suspects,” said Lt. George Crolly with the Springfield Police Department.
Police can use the cameras both proactively and reactively. They can alert police to vehicles tied to Amber Alerts or stolen car reports, or police can use the system to search for vehicles that were near a crime scene…