TEXAS CITY — The Texas City Police Department says it is investigating a sergeant over the possible misuse of its automated license plate reader system after an internal review ordered by Interim Chief James Patterson.

The department said the review, conducted earlier this summer, identified two instances of possible misuse of the technology.

In one case, a civilian employee violated department policy and was disciplined, police said. The second case involves a sergeant and remains active and ongoing.

The department did not identify either employee or describe the alleged misuse. It also declined to comment on the details of its internal investigations.

The announcement follows questions from KGTX 7 News about allegations of improper use of the system and whether department access had been restricted.

Texas City police said they have made several operational changes, including reducing search access by about two-thirds. Access is now limited to detectives and supervisors with the rank of sergeant or higher.

Users must now enter a case number and specific reason before conducting a search, according to the department. Searches lacking those required justification fields will be rejected.

Police said supervisors have audited all personnel with ALPR access, including the chief, and the department will conduct monthly audits moving forward. Department leadership will also review any activity flagged by the system or a supervisor, according to the release.

Authorized users will receive training on appropriate use, privacy protections, data security and department requirements.

The Galveston County District Attorney’s Office told KGTX 7 News it did not have anything “on its desk regarding charges for an officer” when contacted Tuesday.

Texas City has used automated license plate readers since 2023. The department says it has 26 stationary readers and two deployable readers, which have assisted in homicide investigations, stolen-vehicle recoveries and theft cases.

Patterson said the department considers the technology valuable but said community trust is equally important.

“By putting more processes and reviews in place, we are improving transparency and holding each officer accountable, not just to the department, but to the community we serve,” Patterson said.