Map Reveals Texas Flock Camera Hotspots As Abbott Blocks Funding

A new map of Texas reveals where the most Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) cameras, operated by the Flock surveillance system, are located. Republican Governor Greg Abbott recently ordered state agencies to stop funding Flock cameras, following a public backlash over the privacy and potential misuses of the technology. The Texas Tribune reported the governor’s decision, revealing that the state has invested at least $30 million in Flock cameras for local police departments over the past three years.

Abbott’s spokesman confirmed the order, stating that Texas agencies are now ensuring state funds cannot be used for Flock cameras, with most ALPRs in Texas being operated by cities. Many cities are canceling their Flock contracts, as they receive most of their funding from federal sources. Flock Safety maintains that its technology is an essential tool for law enforcement, helping them solve crimes and protect communities, while emphasizing the need for responsible use and strong privacy safeguards.

The Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority, led mostly by appointees from Austin, has installed around 3,200 Flock cameras since 2023. Texas has a total of more than 13,500 ALPR cameras in its 254 counties, with the highest concentrations in the most populous counties: Harris County (Houston) with 3,546 cameras, Dallas County (1,334), Tarrant County (949), Collin County (603), Fort Bend County (596), Denton County (534), Bexar County (433), Travis County (430), Montgomery County (271), and Williamson County (240).

Governor Abbott has been accused of contributing to the spread of Flock cameras across the state, while critics argue that the technology enables mass surveillance and raises concerns about privacy. Over 50 cities and towns have deactivated, rejected, or canceled Flock contracts since the beginning of the year, following investigations and police misconduct cases.

Flock Safety founder and CEO Garrett Langley has responded to the criticism by calling for legislation to make unauthorized use of Flock data a criminal offense and emphasizing the company's commitment to transparency and accountability.