The Galloway Township Police Department has begun installing license plate reader (LPR) cameras throughout the township after securing more than $60,000 in state grant funding. The initiative is part of the department’s ongoing efforts to combat crime while addressing community concerns about privacy and transparency.
According to a social media statement released by the department on Thursday, Jan. 23, installation of the stationary LPR cameras officially began that day following more than three years of planning.
The department was awarded $60,325 through a competitive grant process administered by the state, making Galloway Township one of only two police departments in Atlantic County — the other being the City of Brigantine — to receive the funding.
Police officials emphasized that LPR technology has become one of the most effective investigative tools available to modern law enforcement. In fall 2025, LPR data played a key role in identifying a suspect involved in a road-rage-related attempted murder in Galloway Township, the statement said.
The department outlined how the cameras function, noting that they scan license plates as vehicles travel along roadways, alert officers to stolen vehicles or vehicles connected to serious crimes, and help investigators identify vehicles that may be fleeing an area after an incident.
Officials also addressed common misconceptions circulating online.
“There is no live or recorded video to watch. Cameras capture still images only of vehicles and license plates,” the department stated.
Police added that video is not stored, downloaded or reviewed, the cameras are stationary and aimed only at roadways, and access to LPR data is limited to authorized New Jersey law enforcement agencies.
Despite those assurances, police said misinformation shared on social media created unnecessary fear and confusion within the community. In a recent instance, false claims about the cameras’ capabilities led to heightened concern and resulted in a camera being unlawfully removed from a utility pole.
“Posts made without factual context can quickly escalate into public hysteria, erode trust, and distract from the true purpose of public safety initiatives,” the department said, urging residents to verify information through official sources before sharing it online.
The funding for Galloway’s LPR cameras is part of a broader statewide investment announced in April 2023 by then-Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin.
The Murphy Administration allocated $10 million in federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to expand LPR technology across the state. The money was allocated to support 34 law enforcement agencies in all 21 counties as well as the New Jersey State Police.
“Residents across New Jersey deserve to feel safe in their communities,” Gov. Phil Murphy said at the time. “As we continue to address the ongoing wave of auto theft in our state, it is important that we equip our law enforcement agencies with the necessary tools they need to identify and catch these bad actors.”
State officials reported the initiative contributed to a 16% reduction in vehicle thefts statewide between September 2022 and March 2023.
Galloway Township police said they remain committed to transparency, accountability and community trust. The department emphasized that the cameras are intended to enhance safety, deter crime and help solve serious incidents while respecting residents’ privacy.
Officials encouraged anyone with questions or concerns to contact the department directly.
“Honest conversations, not online speculation, help keep our community informed and safe,” the statement said.
Julia graduated from Rider University in 2024 with a BA in multiplatform journalism and minor in social media strategies. In addition to reporting on local news for Shore Local, she is a social media strategist for small businesses. Connect with her: shorelocaljulia@gmail.com or @juliatrain on Instagram.
