A recent map has revealed that Texas counties are equipped with a significant number of automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras, coinciding with Governor Greg Abbott's decision to stop state funding for Flock cameras. This move follows rising concerns over privacy and potential misuse of surveillance technology by law enforcement.
According to the Texas Tribune, Abbott's directive was issued as an investigation was set to disclose that a state agency had allocated at least $30 million in grants over the past three years to enhance the Flock surveillance network for local police departments. Abbott's spokesperson confirmed that state agencies are now prohibited from funding Flock cameras, with most financial support shifting to federal sources.
Flock Safety, the company responsible for the cameras, supports legislation aimed at ensuring responsible technology use while allowing law enforcement to access effective public safety tools. They argue that their technology is instrumental in solving serious crimes and recovering stolen vehicles.
Data from the Texas Privacy Coalition indicates that over 13,500 ALPRs are installed across 218 of Texas' counties, with the highest numbers found in Harris, Dallas, and Tarrant counties. Abbott has noted a statewide crackdown on Flock cameras, citing cases of misuse, and emphasized the need for transparency and privacy protections for Texans.
Further information regarding the impact of Abbott's order on Flock cameras is not yet available.
