After the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) issued a memo this week ordering all license‑plate reader devices—commonly known as Flock cameras—to be removed from state‑maintained roads within 30 days, several Central Florida law‑enforcement agencies have moved to suspend or permanently shut down the technology.
Volusia County leads the way
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood announced Monday that his office will deactivate all license‑plate readers across the county. “It’s going to have a significant impact. There’s no doubt about it,” Chitwood said, adding that the tools have been valuable in fighting crime but have become the target of misinformation about a “mass surveillance program.”
Edgewater Police Department echoed the decision, posting on social media that its readers will be taken down. Edgewater Mayor Diezel DePew praised the move, stating, “I believe this is a step in the right direction for protecting the privacy and constitutional rights of our residents.” He noted that the city will explore alternative public‑safety solutions for parks and other public spaces.
Brevard County follows suit
Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey, citing growing public concern, also announced the removal of the devices. Ivey referenced a recent incident in which a former deputy accessed the system to look up an ex‑girlfriend’s license plate, underscoring the need for stricter privacy safeguards. “Even though our agency had strong policies in place, I understand the concern and the need for strict laws that guarantee protection of our citizens’ rights across the entire state of Florida,” Ivey said.
Seminole, Osceola and other counties respond
Seminole County announced a temporary suspension of its readers, while the Oviedo City Council voted for immediate removal during a work session. The Sanford Police Department similarly said it would pause its program.
Osceola County’s sheriff’s office said it needs additional time to review the FDOT order before deciding on a course of action.
Counties yet to comment
Marion, Sumter, Orange, Lake and Flagler counties have not responded to inquiries about their license‑plate reader policies.
Flock’s response
Flock, the vendor of the technology, issued a statement emphasizing the tool’s role in solving serious crimes, locating missing children, and recovering stolen vehicles. The company said it supports “thoughtful legislation and strong privacy, transparency, and accountability guardrails” rather than an outright ban.
The FDOT memo cited an “exponential increase” in deployments, along with reports of misuse and privacy concerns, as the basis for the removal order. While the directive applies only to state‑maintained roads, many local jurisdictions have chosen to extend the pause to all of their readers, citing constitutional privacy protections and community trust.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
