Police to expand program to scan license plates

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Pittsburgh police plan to expand a program that allows cameras mounted on police cars to scan the license plates of vehicles parked and driving nearby.

Police Chief Nate Harper says he hopes to include the scanning option on surveillance cameras the city plans to install in several neighborhoods.

Critics argue the scanners infringe on drivers’ civil rights.

Pittsburgh police say they have recovered 180 stolen cars in two years using the technology.

The cameras scan 200 license plates a minute.

The license plate information is compared to a database of information on stolen vehicles or vehicles sought in connection with crimes.

State police use the system. License plate scanners are also mounted at toll booths along the Pennsylvania Turnpike.