Houston, TX – License plate readers, technology once only available to police, will be activated in more than 10 Houston area neighborhoods including northwest Harris County, Westlake and Westlake Forest.
The price per camera is $2,000 for a year and this service is provided by a company named Flock Safety based in Atlanta .
These solar-powered devices record vehicles driving in the neighborhoods. Total of six cameras were installed last week in Westlake and Westlake Forest and the cameras have already scanned 35,000 license plates.
The specific cameras only record the license plates. An image of the driver is not taken. Cameras generate still image with date, time, car make and model and license plate number. Only designated HOA board members have access to an internet site that allows them to see, every car and truck that leaves the neighborhood.
Law enforcement also has access to these photos. They can compare the plates from the cameras with their own databases. For Westlake and Westlake Forest, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office can also see these photos.
Although some residents are concerned about their privacy, the local authorities believe this service will be more of a help in case of crime, murder and theft.
What are your thoughts?
