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NewsNoticias Tampa Bay (Univision)September 3, 2026Hillsborough

El Paso Police suspend use of Flock Safety license plate readers

The El Paso Police Department has stopped using Flock Safety automated license plate readers following the expiration of state grant funding and a directive from Governor Greg Abbott prohibiting the use of public funds for this technology. The city is currently coordinating the removal of the surveillance infrastructure from public areas.

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Why It Matters

The removal of these devices changes how local police conduct investigations, shifting from automated plate tracking back to manual investigative methods, which officials state may impact response times.

Key Facts

  • The El Paso Police Department has officially suspended the use of Flock Safety automated license plate readers.
  • The suspension follows the expiration of the state grant that previously funded the program.
  • Governor Greg Abbott issued a directive prohibiting the use of public funds for the acquisition or leasing of this specific surveillance technology.
  • Police Chief Peter Pacillas stated that the department must return to manual investigative methods.
  • The department anticipates that the loss of automated technology may impact investigation response times.
  • City representative Josh Acevedo supported the move, citing concerns over citizen privacy and data management by private surveillance firms.
  • The city is currently in the process of removing the physical infrastructure installed for the readers.

Who's Mentioned

organizationFlock Safety“The private company that provided the automated license plate reader technology.”personPeter Pacillas“El Paso Police Chief who confirmed the suspension.”personGreg Abbott“Governor of Texas who issued the directive prohibiting public funding for this t”personJosh Acevedo“City representative who supported the suspension citing privacy concerns.”organizationEl Paso Police Department“The local law enforcement agency suspending the use of the technology.”