State revokes permits for police-operated systems, citing concerns over privacy, data misuse and surveillance
Florida has ordered the removal of automated cameras capable of identifying and recording vehicle license plates along state highways. The decision was announced Monday, August 31, by the Florida Department of Transportation, or FDOT.
The measure revokes permits granted to law enforcement agencies to install these devices within areas that are part of the state highway system. Agencies will have 30 days to remove the cameras. After that deadline, FDOT may remove any equipment that remains in place.
How the cameras work
Known as automated license plate readers, the systems use high-speed cameras and software to convert images of license plates into searchable data.
The technology is used by police departments to locate vehicles connected to investigations, identify stolen cars and help track down suspects.
Flock Safety is one of the best-known companies in this market, but Florida’s decision is not limited to the company’s equipment. It applies to automated license plate reader systems that require authorization from FDOT.
State cites privacy concerns and potential misuse
In a memorandum sent to law enforcement agencies, FDOT said there has been a rapid increase in the number of these cameras installed along roadways.
The department also cited concerning reports of misuse, data privacy issues and surveillance systems as reasons for the change.
Debate over the technology has intensified in Florida and other states amid questions about who can access the information collected, how long those records are stored and how the data can be shared among different agencies.
Police warn of impact on investigations
The decision, however, is also facing criticism from local officials and members of law enforcement.
Police departments say license plate readers have become an important investigative tool. The cameras can quickly identify vehicles connected to crimes and can help locate stolen cars, suspects, missing people and individuals who may be at risk.
In Putnam County, for example, authorities said the technology has been used to find missing people with dementia, assist in homicide investigations and locate a human trafficking victim.
In Miami Beach, Mayor Steven Meiner criticized the removal of the devices and said the cameras have helped city police locate fleeing suspects, take guns off the streets and make arrests. He described the decision as harmful to public safety.
Governor Ron DeSantis acknowledged that the technology can be useful in fighting crime but argued that limits are needed to prevent the system from being used to track the movements of people who are not under investigation.
New permits are also suspended
In addition to revoking existing permits, FDOT said it will not approve new requests to install these readers in areas under its jurisdiction.
Florida law already requires authorization from the Department of Transportation to install this equipment within state highway rights-of-way. The same law requires the devices to be removed within 30 days after notification from FDOT.
Source: NBC News, Florida Department of Transportation and Associated Press
