Lynn police update rules for license-plate reader use
The department narrowed who can access the Flock system, limited bulk plate data to seven days and required regular reviews, GovTech and Boston.com report.
Lynn — The Lynn Police Department revised its policy for Automated License Plate Recognition, limiting use to lieutenants and higher-ranking officers and requiring the chief to approve access, GovTech reported.
Under the revised rules, bulk license-plate reads must be deleted after seven days unless retained for legal, investigatory reasons or by court order, GovTech said.
The policy calls for routine oversight: GovTech reported the captain of administration will conduct weekly reviews of system activity and share results with the chief and deputy chiefs.
The department told GovTech it operates 23 Flock cameras at key roads and intersections in Lynn. The rules prohibit using the system for personal purposes or to surveil protected activities, and state the city owns the data and limits sharing outside Massachusetts except when law requires it, GovTech reported.
Boston.com reported the policy updates follow an audit that flagged a concerning pattern of searches; the department placed two officers on paid administrative leave while it investigated possible misuse.
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Sources: The Daily Item; GovTech (TNS / Daily Item); Boston 25 News; Boston.com.