Knox County, TN (WOKI) – The Knox County Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday that it has complied with the Knox County Commission’s emergency ordinance governing the use of fixed automated license plate reader systems.
In a statement, KCSO said it has ceased the purchasing, leasing, acquiring, installing, operating and maintaining of all fixed Automated License Plate Reader, or ALPR, systems within Knox County.
The sheriff’s office also said no contracts or agreements involving fixed ALPR technology are being renewed or extended.
According to the statement, compliance includes the removal of fixed license plate reader systems or the suspension of access to those systems on both county and state roadways.
Sheriff’s Office Highlights Transparency
While acknowledging its compliance with the ordinance, KCSO emphasized the value the technology has provided to investigators and law enforcement agencies.
“While the Knox County Sheriff’s Office knows firsthand the invaluable benefit these tools provide our officers, and agencies across the Country, we also understand the importance of being transparent and accountable to the citizens of Knox County,” the statement said.
The agency said it will continue protecting residents using currently available investigative and enforcement tools.
Future Public Information Planned
The sheriff’s office indicated it plans to provide additional information to the public regarding law enforcement technology and its effectiveness.
According to KCSO, future efforts will include sharing details about the tools used by deputies, data demonstrating their effectiveness and explanations about why access to modern investigative technology is important to public safety operations.
The statement suggests the agency hopes to continue discussions with county leaders about law enforcement resources and technology moving forward.
Working with County Leaders
KCSO said it looks forward to continuing its work with:
- Knox County Mayor Betsy Henderson
- Knox County Commission
- Knox County Law Director’s Office
The agency said the goal is to ensure that future operations comply with guidelines established under the Knox County Charter.
Commitment to Public Trust
The sheriff’s office concluded its statement by emphasizing its commitment to maintaining public confidence.
“Knox County deserves a Sheriff’s Office they can trust to always do the right thing, and we look forward to continuing to earn that trust,” the statement said.
What’s Next
With the fixed ALPR systems now removed or disabled, county leaders and the sheriff’s office are expected to continue discussions about law enforcement technology, transparency and oversight. KCSO says it plans to provide additional information about the tools it uses and the role those technologies play in public safety efforts throughout Knox County.
