The Florida Department of Transportation is revoking permits for automated license plate readers on roads in the state highway system, according to a memo issued by the department on Monday.
The devices must be removed within 30 days of the memo, the agency said.
The removal comes as Flock Safety faces a torrent of backlash in response to its automated license plate readers, or ALPRs, which can be found in thousands of towns across the US. The cameras are often placed along roads or at intersections to capture and store license plate data, and are used by law enforcement agencies to help in investigations.
On top of data privacy and Big Brother-type concerns, Flock has also faced scrutiny for misreading plates and contributing to wrongful arrests. Across the country, residents have demanded the removal of Flock cameras while vandals have been removing them themselves or covering them with trash bags or paint.
Following the Florida Department of Transportation’s memo, the Jacksonville sheriff said his office would end the use of license plate readers throughout Duval County, citing the decision as well as resident concerns.
“LPR technology has proven to be an enormously valuable investigative tool, assisting our agency in solving serious crimes and locating missing and vulnerable individuals,” Sheriff T.K. Waters said in a statement. “However, given the decision made at the state level and the concerns expressed by members of our community, I have determined that discontinuing the use of this technology is the appropriate course of action at this time.”
Several other sheriff’s offices in Florida also said they would discontinue the use of Flock cameras following the state decision, including in Franklin County, Liberty County, and Putnam County.
They join a growing list of jurisdictions that have ended their relationship with Flock.
Last week, Tempe, Arizona, said it would shut down its network of 33 Flock cameras, citing risk of misuse and the need to maintain community trust. The Los Angeles Police Department let its contract with Flock expire in July.
Flock did not respond to a request for comment.
