NewsSuncoast SearchlightJune 19, 2026Sarasota County
Use of License Plate Cameras for Immigration Enforcement
Automated license plate reader cameras manufactured by Flock Safety have been used by federal agencies to assist in immigration enforcement investigations. While some local jurisdictions report they do not use the technology for this purpose, federal government searches for immigration-related purposes have exceeded 4,000 instances.
Read the full story at Suncoast SearchlightWhy It Matters
Residents in jurisdictions using Flock camera systems may have their vehicle data accessed by federal immigration authorities for investigations, regardless of local policy stances.
Key Facts
- Federal agencies have conducted over 4,000 searches using Flock license plate reader cameras for immigration-related purposes.
- Flock camera systems allow law enforcement to search for specific vehicle descriptions and license plates.
- The City of Sarasota operates 55 Flock cameras and states they are not used for immigration enforcement.
- State troopers have been identified in prior reporting as users of Flock cameras for immigration-related searches.
- Some communities have removed Flock cameras due to public concerns regarding data sharing and federal enforcement.
Who's Mentioned
organizationFlock Safety“Manufacturer of the automated license plate reader cameras.”organizationSuncoast Searchlight“News organization that reported on the use of cameras by state troopers.”organizationU.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement“Federal agency utilizing camera data for immigration investigations.”organizationSarasota County Sheriff’s Office“Local law enforcement agency using Flock cameras.”locationCity of Sarasota“Local government entity that uses Flock cameras but states they are not used for”