License plate readers

can be used prudently

The Springdale Police Department's use of Flock automated license plate readers deserves serious consideration. Questions about privacy, data retention and potential misuse of powerful surveillance technology are legitimate.

After some research and Police Chief Derek Wright's presentation to the Springdale City Council Tuesday, however, I believe evidence supports allowing the department to continue using the technology while maintaining strong safeguards and public oversight.

Wright did not dismiss concerns about Flock. He acknowledged the technology is intrusive, that other departments have failed to adequately control its use and that additional legislative safeguards may be appropriate.

More importantly, he explained what Springdale is doing differently.

Springdale operates 10 Flock cameras. Searches require an investigative........

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