09/01/2026
The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office has used Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) technology for many years as an investigative tool to help deputies and detectives solve crimes, locate dangerous offenders, and find missing and endangered people. In 2021, the Sheriff’s Office adopted the Flock camera system, expanding access to a broader network of ALPR technology and enhancing the ability to share critical investigative information with law enforcement partners throughout our region and across the state.
Since we began tracking outcomes associated with the Flock system in mid-2021, ALPRs have assisted in more than 800 investigations, contributed to more than 530 arrests, and helped law enforcement locate 34 missing or endangered individuals. The network has also played an important role in solving multiple homicides, including cases originating outside Seminole County, where information generated through the network helped investigators identify and locate individuals suspected of committing violent crimes.
We believe ALPR technology, when used appropriately and with proper safeguards, can be an important public safety tool. At the same time, we recognize the concerns raised by members of our communities regarding how these systems are governed, how information is accessed and retained, and what protections exist to prevent misuse.
The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office has strict policies governing the use of ALPR technology, and violations of those policies carry serious consequences. However, individual agency policies alone are not enough. Floridians should be able to expect consistent baseline standards for the use of this technology, regardless of where they live or which law enforcement agency operates the system.
We are seeing jurisdictions across Florida suspend or discontinue the use of these cameras, along with recent direction from the State of Florida through the Florida Department of Transportation. We also recognize the likelihood that municipalities within Seminole County may take similar action. Given these developments and the broader questions surrounding the future of these programs statewide, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office will suspend its use of the Flock camera network at this time.
This is not a decision we have made lightly, nor does it diminish the tremendous investigative value this technology has demonstrated. Rather, we believe a temporary suspension is the thoughtful and responsible approach while we work toward a clear and consistent framework for its use.
We agree that this approach provides an opportunity to work collaboratively with our local legislative delegation and state leaders on a path forward. The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office is working directly with the Florida Sheriffs Association and its legislative committee to advocate for thoughtful legislation that addresses the concerns we are hearing not only in Seminole County, but in communities across Florida.
That legislation should establish clear statewide standards governing authorized uses, access, accountability, retention, auditing, and meaningful penalties for misuse while preserving the ability of law enforcement to use this technology for legitimate public safety purposes.
Public safety and individual privacy do not have to be competing interests. Good policy can protect both. Our hope is that this legislative session provides an opportunity to establish clear rules that give the public confidence in how this technology is used while ensuring law enforcement retains access to effective tools that have proven their ability to solve serious crimes and save lives.
Until that framework is established and we have greater clarity regarding the future of ALPR programs in Florida, we believe suspending the use of the Flock network is the appropriate course of action for Seminole County.
