License plate reader cameras torn down in Cape Coral prompts investigation

On his way to work Thursday morning, Adam Gahrmann spotted that license plate reading cameras had been torn down at the intersection of Diplomat Parkway East and Santa Barbara Boulevard. "I noticed both cameras were completely cut at the bottom of the pole, with the concrete included, and on both sides of the road they were on the ground," said Adam Gahrmann. A license plate reading camera ended up on the ground. When Gahrmann came across it, he instantly started filming and notified Cape Coral police. After taking a closer look at the damage, he says someone did this on purpose. "Because there are other poles around, including light poles. So if somebody is going to purposely try to run them over, they're going to cause damage by hitting a light pole as well. Somebody had to exit their vehicle and take the time to take those poles down," said Gahrmann. Thousands of these license plate reading cameras are mounted around busy intersections while watching and storing information. They're automated license plate readers to help police find cars that may be involved in crimes or find a missing person. "I've seen them catch murder suspects, carjacking suspects, stolen vehicles. So they're used for great things, but they're also being misused out there as well," said Gahrmann. Police say these cameras have helped solve major crimes, but others say this technology makes them uneasy. Neighbors like Arthur Kinslow support them. "A person who is not breaking the law, I don't mind police recording me. They can record me up down my street all they want to," said Kinslow. In the end, Gahrmann says there needs to be more transparency with the public before these license plate reading cameras are put back. Cape Coral police say they have gotten reports about this incident and they are actively investigating. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.