The Los Angeles City Council voted to delay a pilot program with Axon Enterprise. This program would have installed automated license plate readers (ALPRs) on city streetlights.
The Council's 10-4 vote sends the proposal to the public safety committee for further review. The Board of Police Commissioners had previously approved the proposal. Public and council members expressed significant concerns about potential misuse and surveillance.
The stalled pilot was a no-cost, three-month initiative. It aimed to enhance the LAPD's ability to locate stolen vehicles and fugitives by using AI to identify vehicles and objects.
Council members cited worries over civil liberties and privacy, including the technology's potential for improper use. This decision highlights growing scrutiny and local-level challenges for law enforcement technology contracts.