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NewsCreative Loafing Tampa BaySeptember 1, 2026Hillsborough

Florida sheriffs remove license plate readers following Governor DeSantis's warning against surveillance

Florida sheriffs are beginning to remove automated license plate reader systems after Governor Ron DeSantis expressed concerns regarding the potential for a 'surveillance state.' The Governor stated that law enforcement tools should be focused on criminal activity rather than monitoring the general public.

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Why It Matters

The removal of these systems changes how local law enforcement agencies track vehicle movements and collect data on residents in public spaces.

Key Facts

  • Florida sheriffs are actively removing automated license plate reader systems.
  • Governor Ron DeSantis publicly criticized the use of these tools for monitoring citizens who have not committed crimes.
  • The Governor characterized the widespread use of such technology as a potential 'surveillance state.'
  • The Governor asserted that law enforcement tools should be strictly targeted at criminal activity.

Who's Mentioned

personRon DeSantis“Governor of Florida who directed the removal of cameras from state right-of-ways”personDaniel Perez“Former Florida House Speaker.”personT.K. Waters“Duval County Sheriff.”organizationFlock“Manufacturer of the license plate reader technology being removed.”organizationFlock Safety“Provider of the automated license plate reader technology being discontinued.”organizationCreative Loafing Tampa“Publisher of the news article.”organizationFlorida Department of Transportation“State agency that revoked active permits for license plate readers.”personMichelle Cook“Clay County Sheriff.”personH.D. “Gator” DeLoach“Putnam County Sheriff.”locationJacksonville“Location where the Governor made his remarks.”personSam Garrison“Incoming Florida House Speaker.”locationFlorida“State where the policy shift is occurring.”personDusty Arnold“Liberty County Sheriff.”personChris Nocco“Pasco County Sheriff.”