DeSantis Deals Blow to Controversial Flock Cameras

Gov. Ron DeSantis, R-Fla., notified local law enforcement that automated license plate recognition systems, such as Flock cameras, can no longer be used on the State Highway System.

On Monday, DeSantis’ Florida Department of Transportation ordered all cameras to be removed within 30 days, according to a memo obtained by the Daily Signal.

“If such removal has not occurred within the 30-day period, the Department will remove any remaining devices subject to this memorandum,” the memo says.

This comes amid bipartisan backlash over Flock cameras, which capture license plate information and vehicle characteristics from millions of vehicles, allowing law enforcement to search where those vehicles have traveled.

With more than 120,000 cameras now deployed across the U.S., supporters say the technology gives police a powerful tool to identify suspects and solve crimes. Critics warn that connecting thousands of cameras into a searchable network gives law enforcement unprecedented ability to track people’s movements.

When asked about Flock cameras, President Donald Trump said the issue is “under review.”

“Well, it’s being studied right now,” Trump said. “You know, you have pros and cons, right? It’s being studied right now. We’ll have an answer soon, as to our views on it, in the coming weeks.”