By admin 
SURPRISE, AZ (AZFamily) — A Surprise police officer who was under investigation for potentially misusing the automated license plate reader (ALPR) system has been cleared of any wrongdoing, according to Surprise Police Department officials.
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The audit found that the abnormal activity in the system was caused by a technical issue rather than a policy violation. Officials said the officer was accessing the system through a bookmarked webpage, which made it seem as though the officer was repeatedly searching for the same vehicle.
“Public trust is earned through our everyday interactions and how we respond when our actions are under review. When we found an anomaly in our audit, we immediately let the community know about it,” Surprise Police Chief Evan Becher said in a written statement. “I am thankful to report that there was no evidence of misuse. I appreciate the officer’s professionalism throughout the investigative process, as well as his commitment to serving our city. For more than two years, our employees entrusted with sensitive information from the ALPR system have consistently demonstrated the integrity, judgment and professionalism our community expects of them.”
The city announced Aug. 12 that it placed an officer on leave after an audit uncovered potential misuse of the cameras.
During the investigation, the city announced it was suspending its ALPR contract with Flock Safety and requested the removal of the equipment.
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However, the city could bring the system back.
“Moving forward, the City plans to assess the needs of the police department and evaluate various public safety technologies based on that assessment, which may include ALPRs,” city officials said in a statement.
The officer who was placed on leave is expected to return to full-duty status this week.
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