Santa Rosa County, Gulf Breeze halt use of license plate reader cameras

The Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office and Gulf Breeze Police Department have announced they're discontinuing use of automated license plate reader cameras, according to WKRG News 5.

The decision marks a shift in enforcement technology for both agencies, though details on the specific reasons behind the move were not immediately available. Automated license plate readers have become increasingly common in law enforcement across Florida, capturing vehicle registration information to help track stolen vehicles and identify suspects.

It's unclear whether the agencies plan to pursue alternative surveillance or tracking methods, or if budget, privacy concerns, or other operational factors influenced the decision. Neither agency has released a detailed statement explaining the timing or rationale for discontinuing the system.

NewsRadio Pensacola will continue to seek more information from both the sheriff's office and Gulf Breeze police about the decision and any impact on their investigative operations.