St. Petersburg Police Address Flock Camera Usage, Emphasize Investigative Role
The St. Petersburg Police Department has issued a statement regarding the use of Flock cameras, also known as automated license plate readers. Chief Holloway clarified that these cameras are used as an investigative tool to help solve crimes, locate missing…
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, August 6, 2026 —
The St. Petersburg Police Department has released a statement to clarify the operational parameters and intended uses of Flock cameras, also identified as automated license plate readers (ALPRs), within the city. The department aims to provide transparency regarding the technology’s role in law enforcement efforts.
According to Chief Holloway, these cameras serve as a critical investigative tool. Their primary functions include assisting in the resolution of criminal investigations, aiding in the location of individuals who are reported missing, and facilitating the recovery of stolen vehicles. The department stressed that the technology is not deployed for the purpose of monitoring the routine daily activities of residents or for tracking individuals unless there is a substantiated and legitimate law enforcement objective.
The Flock camera system captures specific vehicle data points, including the license plate number, as well as the make, model, and color of the vehicle. This information is crucial for identifying vehicles associated with criminal activity or missing persons cases. The department has stated that all collected footage is subject to a retention policy of 30 days. Access to this data is restricted, indicating that only authorized personnel can view the captured information, adhering to privacy and data security protocols.
Story summarized from the original created by Leilyn Torres on www.tampabay28.com, see more information here.
