Bartlesville FOP Backs License Plate Reader Program

Police union calls on city leaders to maintain use of automated license plate readers

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #117 in Bartlesville, Oklahoma is urging city leaders to continue the city's use of automated license plate reader (ALPR) technology, citing the technology's effectiveness in helping law enforcement investigate crimes and locate stolen vehicles.

Why it matters

The debate over the use of ALPR technology has become a contentious issue in many communities, with concerns raised about privacy rights and the potential for misuse of the data collected. The FOP's public support for the program in Bartlesville reflects the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and civil liberties advocates over the appropriate use of this surveillance technology.

The details

In a statement, the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #117 said the ALPR system has been a valuable tool for the Bartlesville Police Department, helping officers quickly identify stolen vehicles and investigate other crimes. The union argued that the technology respects individual privacy while enhancing public safety.

  • The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #117 issued its statement on February 12, 2026.

The players

Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #117

The local police union representing officers in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

Bartlesville Police Department

The law enforcement agency in Bartlesville that utilizes the automated license plate reader technology.

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What they’re saying

“The ALPR system has been a valuable tool for the Bartlesville Police Department, helping officers quickly identify stolen vehicles and investigate other crimes. The technology respects individual privacy while enhancing public safety.”

— Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #117 (spotonoklahoma.com)

The takeaway

This debate over the use of automated license plate readers highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement's desire for effective crime-fighting tools and the public's concerns about privacy and civil liberties. As the technology continues to evolve, communities will likely continue to grapple with finding the right balance between public safety and individual rights.