NewsCreative Loafing Tampa Bay — NewsSeptember 1, 2026Hillsborough County
Florida sheriffs remove license plate readers following Governor DeSantis's warning against surveillance
Photo: Creative Loafing Tampa Bay — News
Florida sheriffs are beginning to decommission 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.
Read the full story at Creative Loafing Tampa Bay — NewsWhy 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 stated that law enforcement tools should be reserved for fighting crime.
- The announcement was made by the Governor during a speech in Jacksonville on Monday.
Who's Mentioned
PersonRon DeSantis“Governor of Florida”PersonDaniel Perez“Former Florida House Speaker”locationFlorida“State where the policy shift is occurring.”PersonT.K. Waters“Duval County Sheriff”OrganizationFlock“Manufacturer of the license plate reader technology being removed.”OrganizationFlock Safety“Provider of license plate reader technology”OrganizationCreative Loafing Tampa“The news outlet that published the article.”OrganizationFlorida Department of Transportation“State agency revoking permits”PersonMichelle Cook“Clay County Sheriff”locationJacksonville“Location where the Governor made his remarks.”PersonSam Garrison“Incoming Florida House Speaker”PersonH.D. Gator DeLoach“Putnam County Sheriff”PersonDusty Arnold“Liberty County Sheriff”PersonChris Nocco“Pasco County Sheriff”