The City of Palm Bay is suspending the use of its Flock Safety automated license plate reader system as questions surrounding Automated License Plate Reader technology continue to receive increased attention at the state and national levels.
BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA – The City of Palm Bay is suspending the use of its Flock Safety automated license plate reader system as questions surrounding Automated License Plate Reader technology continue to receive increased attention at the state and national levels.
The decision follows discussions among state leaders regarding concerns surrounding the collection, retention, sharing and potential misuse of ALPR data, as well as the need for clear standards governing the use of the technology.
Automated license plate readers have provided law enforcement agencies with an important investigative tool to assist in locating stolen vehicles, identifying wanted individuals, recovering missing or endangered persons and investigating serious crimes.
However, the City recognizes that the use of technology involving the collection and sharing of data must be accompanied by appropriate safeguards, transparency and public confidence.
The Palm Bay Police Department will suspend use of the Flock system while the City continues to evaluate the evolving legal and policy landscape surrounding ALPR technology, including discussions regarding statewide standards for data retention, information sharing, auditing, authorized use and accountability.
“This is a critically important crime-fighting tool that has helped our officers protect lives and solve serious crimes, including multiple murders in the Compound,” said Mayor Rob Medina. “For me, this is ultimately about protecting the lives of the people we serve. At the same time, I recognize the concerns surrounding artificial intelligence, data collection and how that information may be used. I am prayerful that our legislators will work toward clear, responsible laws that address AI and data harvesting while still allowing law enforcement to use effective tools that help keep our communities safe.”
The City also recognizes that suspending the system may temporarily reduce certain investigative capabilities available to the Palm Bay Police Department and will potentially cause an increase in crime.
The City will await further legislation and/or guidance from the State of Florida regarding the use of ALPR technology before determining the future of the Palm Bay program.
The City of Palm Bay and the Palm Bay Police Department remain committed to protecting the life and property of our community.
