Austin Police Department addresses audit findings and improves data sharing practices
June 03, 2025 | Austin, Travis County, Texas
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The Austin City Council Work Session on June 3, 2025, focused on the findings of a recent audit concerning the Austin Police Department's (APD) use of Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) technology. The session highlighted the department's commitment to transparency and improvement following identified shortcomings in their operations.
During the meeting, officials acknowledged past missteps in the use of ALPR data, including improper stops and failures to adhere to data sharing limitations. The APD reported that there were 13,122 matches made by the ALPR system, with zero unjustified stops, indicating a need for better training and understanding of policies among some employees. The department emphasized its proactive approach by conducting internal audits and collaborating with the city auditor's office to address these issues.
The audit report included four key recommendations for the APD. These included automating data requests for audits, clearly defining staff roles in risk management audits, conducting regular reviews of ALPR compliance, and establishing a timeline for reporting audit results. The APD expressed agreement with these recommendations and outlined steps already taken to implement them, such as developing a guide for audit procedures and enhancing training for officers.
A significant point of discussion was the APD's recent changes to its contract with Flock, the vendor providing ALPR technology. In response to community concerns, the department has opted out of sharing aggregated data, which compiles anonymized information from various customers across Texas. Officials clarified that this data does not include personal information about vehicle owners, aiming to reassure the public about privacy concerns.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the APD to improve its practices and maintain open communication with stakeholders, including the Office of Police Oversight and the public safety committee. The department plans to provide regular updates on audit results and continue refining its use of ALPR technology to enhance public safety while respecting community privacy.
During the meeting, officials acknowledged past missteps in the use of ALPR data, including improper stops and failures to adhere to data sharing limitations. The APD reported that there were 13,122 matches made by the ALPR system, with zero unjustified stops, indicating a need for better training and understanding of policies among some employees. The department emphasized its proactive approach by conducting internal audits and collaborating with the city auditor's office to address these issues.
The audit report included four key recommendations for the APD. These included automating data requests for audits, clearly defining staff roles in risk management audits, conducting regular reviews of ALPR compliance, and establishing a timeline for reporting audit results. The APD expressed agreement with these recommendations and outlined steps already taken to implement them, such as developing a guide for audit procedures and enhancing training for officers.
A significant point of discussion was the APD's recent changes to its contract with Flock, the vendor providing ALPR technology. In response to community concerns, the department has opted out of sharing aggregated data, which compiles anonymized information from various customers across Texas. Officials clarified that this data does not include personal information about vehicle owners, aiming to reassure the public about privacy concerns.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the APD to improve its practices and maintain open communication with stakeholders, including the Office of Police Oversight and the public safety committee. The department plans to provide regular updates on audit results and continue refining its use of ALPR technology to enhance public safety while respecting community privacy.
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