FBI Director Kash Patel on Tuesday endorsed Flock cameras—automated license plate readers—as a critical tool for federal investigators, while also announcing what he described as the largest year-to-year reduction in violent crime in U.S. history.
During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Patel testified that Flock cameras have been essential in tracking criminals, including their use in locating suspects in high-profile cases such as the Brown University school shooting last year. The cameras, which automatically record license plates of passing vehicles, are widely deployed by private businesses, police departments, and state agencies and can share data across jurisdictions, including with the FBI.
Patel’s remarks came as Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) questioned the growing scrutiny over automated license plate recognition (ALPR) systems, citing concerns over privacy and constitutional rights. Cornyn argued there had been a ‘rush to judgment’ on their use, prompting Patel to defend the technology’s role in law enforcement.
In a separate statement to lawmakers, Patel highlighted record-breaking crime reduction efforts under his leadership. He reported a 20% drop in the national murder rate over 18 months, a 90% increase in violent crime arrests, and the thwarting of 1,039 potential terrorist attacks in the same period. Patel attributed these gains to administration support and a rebuilt FBI, emphasizing the agency’s success in cracking down on drug trafficking, human trafficking, and gang-related arrests.
The FBI director also noted the disruption of an alleged ISIS-inspired attack near Pittsburgh over the weekend, where authorities allege the suspect had purchased a firearm and expressed intent to carry out violence. Patel’s prepared remarks to the committee underscored the agency’s broader efforts to target Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs), with 4,260 arrests tied to such groups in recent operations.
Privacy advocates and lawmakers have increasingly raised concerns about ALPR systems, warning of potential mass surveillance risks and unwarranted tracking of innocent individuals. Critics argue that the aggregation and sharing of license plate data could violate privacy rights, particularly as private entities and law enforcement agencies exchange information across state lines.
Patel’s testimony follows President Donald Trump’s weekend endorsement of Flock cameras, signaling continued political support for the technology despite ongoing debates over its implications.