Cities, counties across Central Florida update license plate reader policies after FDOT memo
Some Central Florida law enforcement agencies are shutting down their license plate reader programs after the Florida Department of Transportation ordered the devices removed from state roads.
FDOT sent a memo to law enforcement agencies Monday, telling them they have 30 days to remove the devices, commonly known as Flock cameras, from state roads.
In the memo, FDOT cited “the recent exponential increase in deployments along our roadways, coupled with concerning reports of misuse, data privacy concerns, and surveillance schemes” in its decision.
While the memo only addresses state roads, some local agencies are shutting the program down altogether.
Volusia County
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood announced Monday afternoon that his agency would be shutting down license plate readers across the county.
“It’s going to have a significant impact. There’s no doubt about it,” Chitwood said.
Chitwood and other sheriffs and police chiefs across the state have praised the devices for their help in fighting crime and catching criminals quickly.
“As I’m watching some of the stuff that they’re doing with the information, Flock has put themselves in a bad shot,” he said. “But what I have never seen is the absolute lies, the distortion of facts that are out there, this ‘mass surveillance program’ … it’s bull**** … and it’s a shame because this is a really good tool when used properly.”
Edgewater police have also posted on social media saying that they are shutting down their license plate readers and will have them taken down.
Edgewater Mayor Diezel DePew supports the decision, announcing the city will no longer be using Flock cameras.
“I believe this is a step in the right direction for protecting the privacy and constitutional rights of our residents,” DePew said. “After hearing concerns from our constituents, we are listening. As we explore other public safety solutions for areas such as our parks, protecting both public safety and individual privacy must remain a priority.”
Brevard County
Like Chitwood, Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey is aware of the growing concern from the public regarding possible misuse of the data the devices collect.
Earlier this month, a former Brevard County deputy of the year resigned after an investigation revealed he logged onto Flock cameras to look up his ex-girlfriend’s license plate.
Following FDOT’s memo, Ivey announced Monday that his agency is also joining a growing list removing the devices.
“Even though our agency had strong policies in place to protect our citizens’ right to privacy, I still understand the concern and, more importantly, the need for strict policies and laws that guarantee the protection of our citizens’ rights across the entire state of Florida,” Ivey said.
Seminole County
Seminole County is temporarily suspending its license plate readers.
Oviedo City Council opted for the immediate removal of Flock cameras Monday night during a work session.
The Sanford Police Department has also commented since the release of the order, saying they will issue a temporary pause to license plate readers.
Osceola County
The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office said they need more time to review the FDOT order.
Other counties
Marion, Sumter, Orange, Lake and Flagler counties have not yet replied to WESH 2’s request for comment.
Full statement from Flock
“Flock’s technology is an important public safety tool for law enforcement agencies across Florida, helping officers solve serious crimes, find missing people, recover stolen vehicles, and support safer communities.
In just the last few weeks in Florida, the technology was used to find missing children, led to the arrest of a murder suspect, and assisted in solving numerous other crimes.
Rather than banning a critical public safety tool, we support thoughtful legislation and strong privacy, transparency, and accountability guardrails that ensure technology is used responsibly while preserving law enforcement’s ability to use effective tools to keep people safe.”