Florida FDOT revokes statewide LPR permits, orders removal
Florida FDOT revokes statewide LPR permits, orders removal
Anonymous
Key Points
1
Leon County Sheriff's Office suspended its use of automated license plate recognition (LPR) technology on Aug. 31, 2026, while awaiting stronger oversight measures.
2
Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook stressed that public safety efforts will continue despite the removal of LPRs, and highlighted several cases where the technology aided law enforcement—adding, "As always, our commitment to fostering a safe community where families and businesses can thrive remains our top priority."
3
Putnam County Sheriff Gator DeLoach announced the removal of all 18 LPR cameras in Putnam County, with Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters stating his office would comply with the state directive.
4
Clay County Sheriffs Office noted its history with LPRs, used as a crime-fighting tool since 2018, underscoring that removal decisions are part of broader policy changes while public safety remains a priority.
Florida's Department of Transportation revoked all automated license plate reader permits on state highways and banned new installations, citing privacy concerns and misuse. FDOT ordered immediate removal of existing devices, with local agencies given 30 days to comply. The crackdown marks a major shift in surveillance technology policy across the state.
Will Watts, in an FDOT memo, emphasized the agency's authority to remove cameras immediately if safety concerns arise. Governor Ron DeSantis indicated he wants a full review of license plate camera usage statewide. Sheriff offices across Florida, including Clay and Putnam counties, have begun compliance with the removal order.
A Surge in Cameras Sparked the Crackdown
The revocation comes after a rapid expansion of license plate readers on Florida roads. FDOT cited a surge in deployments and reports of misuse as reasons for the statewide ban. The agency said it needed to protect Floridians' privacy rights and quality of life from unchecked surveillance technology.
County Sheriffs Begin Removing Devices Immediately
Putnam County Sheriff Gator DeLoach announced removal of all 18 LPR cameras in the county. Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters said his office would comply with the state order. Volusia Sheriff's Office stopped using the cameras after recent public criticism and vandalism of Flock devices, We Are TV reported.
Leon County Sheriff's Office suspended LPR use on August 31, 2026, while awaiting stronger state oversight. Okaloosa County gave law enforcement 30 days to remove cameras from state rights-of-way. The coordinated removals show broad compliance across the state.
Law Enforcement Says Public Safety Work Will Continue
Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook stressed that crime-fighting efforts won't stop despite the removals. The cameras had helped locate missing persons and solve crimes since 2018. Cook said: "Our commitment to fostering a safe community where families and businesses can thrive remains our top priority."
Sheriffs emphasized they will keep using other investigative tools to protect their communities. The camera removals represent a policy shift, not an end to public safety work. Local departments plan to stay compliant with all state guidelines moving forward.
Sentiment
Mostly NegativeNEGATIVENEUTRALPOSITIVE
Publishers
10
Articles
5
Reach
15
Topics
A
AnonymousAuthor
