EPPD has effectively halted use of Flock license plate reader system, Canales says

EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso City Representative for District 8, Chris Canales announced Wednesday evening that the El Paso Police Department “has effectively halted the use of” Flock’s Automated License Plate Reader, because state funding was terminated.

Earlier on Wednesday, KFOX14/CBS4 asked the City of El Paso whether the state’s current freeze on state agency spending on Flock cameras could impact El Paso’s Flock system, but did not receive a response.

According to the Texas Tribune, Gov. Greg Abbott directed state agencies on Thursday Aug. 27 to halt state funding for flock cameras.

Earlier this year, Canales and City Rep. Lily Limon, proposed that the city not renew its agreement with Flock and discontinue its use of the networked, AI-powered license plate readers. The proposal failed in a 2-6 City Council vote.

Canales said he now believes halting the system is the correct decision.

In a statement Canales said the following:

Flock has time and time again shown itself to be untrustworthy as a company, with its system prone to misuse and abuse. I have many outstanding concerns about potential violations of privacy, data sharing and access, and the many scandals and negative incidents nationwide.

Canales acknowledged that he has not seen those issues arise in El Paso but said the potential privacy, data-sharing and misuse risks led him to oppose the system.

In a statement to KFOX14/CBS4, city officials say their focus remains on giving officers the necessary tools to keep El Paso safe.

Technology can be an important tool in helping law enforcement investigate crimes, locate vehicles connected to criminal activity and respond more efficiently. The City will continue evaluating available public safety tools and resources that can support the Police Department’s work while ensuring appropriate safeguards, accountability and respect for privacy and civil liberties.

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