A recent map has revealed the distribution of automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras across Texas, with a notable concentration in several counties. This comes as Governor Greg Abbott has directed a halt to state funding for Flock cameras due to rising privacy concerns and fears of misuse by law enforcement. Dallas is about 37 miles south of Aubrey.
According to the Texas Tribune, Abbott's directive follows an investigation indicating that a state agency had allocated over $30 million in the past three years to expand the Flock surveillance network via grants to local police departments. Andrew Mahaleris, a spokesperson for Abbott, confirmed that state agencies are now instructed to refrain from funding Flock cameras, with funding sources primarily shifting to federal levels.
Flock Safety, the company responsible for the cameras, has voiced support for legislation that promotes responsible technology use while still enabling law enforcement to access essential tools for public safety. They argue that their technology is beneficial in solving serious crimes, finding missing individuals, and recovering stolen vehicles.
A database from the Texas Privacy Coalition shows that more than 13,500 ALPR cameras are installed across 218 counties in Texas, with Harris County having the highest number at 3,546 cameras. Abbott has mentioned a statewide initiative to reduce the presence of Flock cameras, referencing a case where a Lufkin police officer was charged with misusing the system for personal surveillance.
