Looking up a license plate?

[msethhunter]

So we all know that you aren't allowed to look up a license plate unless it's work related. Do firemen also have access to that info? What would happen if they did, and were caught doing it? Is there a specific code, like a California code that prohibits it?

 

[295566]

Firefighters don't have have access to that info... possibly with the exception of Investigators/Fire Marshalls. Can't remember offhand what access they have, but they do have police powers (can make arrests etc) and POST trained.

 

[Shaggy]

Run o’ the mill firefighters do not have CLETS access. Unauthorized use or dissemination of CLETS info is covered under 11142 PC and 11143 PC

 

[scootergmc]

So we all know that you aren't allowed to look up a license plate unless it's work related. Do firemen also have access to that info? What would happen if they did, and were caught doing it? Is there a specific code, like a California code that prohibits it?

This thread is lame without the backstory. Long story short, unauthorized CLETS access is a misdemeanor. Whether CLETS was used to access DMV records is unknown. CLETS is just the DOJ communication gateway used most often by LE to access confidential systems, including DMV. Now it is also possible the fire department has an online (or other) DMV government requester account directly through DMV, but who knows, and who knows if it was being used for the purpose outlined in the requester approval. I believe general misuse of a requester account is a civil penalty.