Spokane Police Clarify Stance on License Plate Readers
The department confirmed it does not use automated license plate reader technology in its current traffic camera network.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Law Enforcement
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The Spokane Police Department has clarified it does not own or operate Flock or automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras. This statement follows reports of such technology being sighted in Spokane County.
Why it matters
The clarification helps distinguish between the department's existing traffic enforcement tools and the independent surveillance systems that have recently raised public questions.
The City of Spokane currently maintains nineteen Photo-Red cameras and eleven Photo-Speed cameras. These systems are restricted to violation reviews and contain no automated license plate reader components.
The players
Spokane Police Department
This is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining public safety and traffic regulation within the city of Spokane.
Spokane County Sheriff's Office
This agency serves as the chief law enforcement branch for the unincorporated areas of the county and previously managed its own contract with technology provider Flock.
The details
Spokane Police noted that traffic camera data is limited to a validation process involving a short video and a still image of the vehicle rear. Photographs of vehicle occupants are prohibited, and state law mandates that these images are reserved exclusively for violation review.
Timeline
March 2026: The Spokane County Sheriff's Office ended its contract with Flock.
September 2026: Flock cameras were sighted around Spokane County.
October 27, 2026: The Spokane Police Department issued its statement on camera ownership.
Legal Context
The city's camera policy adheres to Washington state law, which prohibits the use of traffic camera imagery for purposes outside of specific violation reviews. This legal framework limits the potential for broad surveillance using the city's existing traffic infrastructure.
Residents should be aware that city-operated traffic cameras are not tracking vehicle license plates or identifying occupants. The existing system is solely focused on identifying specific traffic violations like running red lights or speeding in school zones.
The takeaway
Transparency regarding surveillance technology helps maintain community trust in local law enforcement operations. Residents can verify departmental practices by consulting official city notices regarding public safety tools.
Further reading
For more information on department policies, visit the Spokane Law Enforcement section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NonStop Local KHQ.
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