Putnam County Sheriff Suspends License-Plate Reader Cameras Over Privacy Concerns

H.D. “Gator” DeLoach, sheriff of Putnam County, Florida, ordered the immediate disconnection of all 18 automated license-plate reader (ALPR) cameras deployed on county roadways and mandated their removal within 30 days. The program, in place since 2022, had been credited with locating individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, tracking murder suspects and, earlier this year, assisting the FBI in finding a teenage human-trafficking victim.

WJXT - News4Jax

The sheriff’s office cited extensive internal safeguards—case-number documentation for each access and quarterly data audits—but pointed to nationwide reports of misuse by other law-enforcement agencies and private entities as a factor in the decision.

Breitbart

Local residents voiced strong opposition to the cameras. These comments reflect broader concerns that the cameras could enable surveillance beyond traffic enforcement.

Breitbart

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis echoed the privacy worries, stating residents are right to be concerned and warning that unchecked use could create “a surveillance state.” He linked the issue to his push for an “AI bill of rights.” DeLoach emphasized that the move does not indict his deputies, noting their lawful and responsible use of the technology under the strongest safeguards the department could implement. He indicated the program will remain halted until the state legislature establishes clear parameters for ALPR deployment.

Breitbart

• “Over the past several weeks, legitimate questions have continued to emerge regarding privacy, data sharing, governmental oversight, and the future regulation of this technology,” — Gator’ DeLoach

Breitbart

• “Public safety matters. So does individual liberty. Neither should be treated casually,” — Gator’ DeLoach

Breitbart

• “I think that’s important that we do that, and no one’s been stronger on law enforcement than me. But I don’t want to have this become a surveillance state. I don’t want there to be a situation — and that’s why we wanted an AI bill of rights,” — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who said residents are right to be “concerned” about it

Breitbart

• “I feel like that’s stalking and harassment,” — Hazel

WJXT - News4Jax

• “Automated license plate readers are an effective law-enforcement tool, and I’ve seen firsthand how they can help us locate dangerous offenders, recover stolen vehicles, kidnapping victims and solve serious crimes. I also believe, however, that effective law enforcement requires the trust and confidence of the people we serve,” — Gator’ DeLoach

WJXT - News4Jax