While we weren't looking, a massive surveillance network quietly took root across New Jersey. Hundreds of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) and Live View Cameras now track who drives where and when. These cameras don't just log license plates—they capture your car’s make, color, and distinct features like bumper stickers or roof racks. They are being used to monitor sidewalks, playgrounds, even children's gymnastic centers. All of this data is funneled into databases analyzed by artificial intelligence and made accessible to an unknown number of individuals.
"Arguing that you don't care about the right to privacy because you have nothing to hide is no different than saying you don't care about free speech because you have nothing to say." - Edward Snowden
The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized. - the Fourth Amendment
"Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety." - Benjamin Franklin
The exact number of government surveillance cameras in New Jersey is unknown, as they are being deployed by a fragmented array of state agencies, municipalities, and counties. With estimates reaching into the thousands, it is nearly impossible to travel through the state without being captured in multiple databases. Currently, there are no official requirements for data retention periods, nor are there warrant mandates to ensure that searches of this footage are conducted for legitimate purposes. Given that misuse by public officials has been documented repeatedly, we invite you to join us in raising awareness about this expansion of government surveillance. Help us advocate for necessary restrictions on the collection, storage, and usage of our personal data.