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FLORIDA - The use of Flock Safety license plate reader cameras continues to expand across Florida, prompting an ongoing debate over whether the technology improves public safety or raises concerns about privacy and data collection.
The camera systems are designed to capture images of passing vehicles, including license plate numbers, vehicle color, make, model and other identifying characteristics.
Law enforcement agencies say the information is used to generate investigative leads in criminal cases involving stolen vehicles, missing persons and suspects connected to serious crimes.
The cameras do not record video continuously or issue speeding or traffic violation citations.
Supporters of the technology say the systems have helped investigators quickly identify vehicles connected to crimes and improve response times during active investigations.
Many agencies have expanded the use of the cameras in recent years, citing their value in solving cases that might otherwise have remained unsolved.
Privacy advocates, however, have raised concerns about how long vehicle information is stored, who has access to the data and how it may be shared between law enforcement agencies.
Some critics argue the widespread deployment of license plate reader cameras could allow authorities to track the movements of people who are not suspected of committing crimes.
As more cities and counties consider installing additional cameras, local governments continue balancing public safety interests with privacy concerns.
The discussion has intensified following several recent criminal investigations in which Flock cameras were credited with helping identify suspects or locate vehicles connected to reported crimes.
The debate is expected to continue as Florida communities evaluate the benefits, costs and privacy implications of expanding automated license plate reader technology throughout the state.