# WHPD Chief Riddick Presents Update on the Police Department's Automated License Plate Reader Program

At a West Hartford Community Interactive meeting on October 7, 2026, Police Chief Riddick reviewed changes to the department’s automated license plate reader (ALPR) policy to align with Connecticut’s new statute and the state model policy. The updated safeguards include limits on data sharing, restrictions involving reproductive health care, gender-affirming care and immigration matters, verification of alert information, annual user training, and a 21-day data-retention limit that may be extended for an ongoing investigation with approval. The department is currently sharing ALPR information only within Connecticut, although the law permits certain sharing with neighboring states and qualifying task forces under specified conditions.

Discussion covered privacy concerns, the system’s ability to capture vehicle images as well as license plates, and vendor accountability. Chief Riddick noted that the department uses Flock and that other vendors, including Recor and Axon, are available; he said the town is not obligated to remain with Flock and could assess alternatives for better equipment, services, or cost savings. The transcript mentions prior investment in the system but provides no dollar amount, contract details, procurement motion, or purchasing decision. No new procurement activity was identified.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Public Safety, Information Technology
**Topics:** Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** October 07, 2026

### Sources
- [WHPD Chief Riddick Presents Update on the Police Department's Automated License Plate Reader Program](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwoxa-mj4cc) - West Hartford Community Interactive