UPDATE: The Oakland Police Department (OPD) has urgently denied recent allegations that it shared automated license plate reader (ALPR) data with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The denial comes in response to a report from the San Francisco Standard published on October 16, 2023, which claimed that OPD had provided license plate information to ICE during an investigation.
According to the report, one instance dated April 22 involved the California Highway Patrol accessing OPD’s ALPR system, noted as an “ICE case,” but lacked further clarification. OPD has called these claims “misleading,” asserting they do not reflect the department’s adherence to legal data-sharing agreements with California and local law enforcement agencies.
In a statement on Facebook, OPD emphasized, “To be clear, no member of the Oakland Police Department was involved in this alleged sharing of ALPR information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).” The department began utilizing its current ALPR system in July 2022, stating it has significantly enhanced their ability to solve crimes, including locating homicide and robbery suspects.
OPD further clarified that it shares ALPR data with over 80 California local and state law enforcement agencies, but strictly adheres to Senate Bill 34, which prohibits sharing license plate reader data with federal entities, and the California Values Act, which prevents the use of resources for immigration enforcement. OPD stated, “In compliance with city policy, OPD does not enforce or assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials in enforcing civil immigration law violations.”
Additionally, the report from the San Francisco Standard alleged that the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) also provided ALPR data to ICE unlawfully. As of now, SFPD has not issued any public response to these claims.
This situation highlights ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement and local police practices in California. OPD’s swift denial aims to reassure the community of its commitment to upholding the Sanctuary City Ordinance, reflecting Oakland’s stance on protecting immigrant rights.
As the story develops, more information is anticipated regarding the OPD’s methods of data sharing and the implications for its relationship with federal agencies. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding situation.
