Arizona Auditor Launches Flock Plate Reader Probe
Attorney General Kris Mayes is auditing automated license plate reader usage across the state.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Law Enforcement
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Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has launched a statewide audit of Flock automated license plate reader (ALPR) systems to investigate data privacy and access protocols. The inquiry follows concerns regarding who accesses the collected information and potential third-party usage.
Why it matters
The audit addresses significant privacy questions about how sensitive location data is handled, shared with out-of-state law enforcement, and potentially utilized by agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The attorney general's office is currently auditing Flock ALPR systems to verify operator usage patterns and data accessibility. Further legislative action is anticipated in the upcoming session.
The players
Kris Mayes
Kris Mayes serves as the Attorney General of Arizona and is overseeing the statewide audit of license plate reader technology.
Flock
Flock is a technology company that provides automated license plate reader systems to various law enforcement agencies.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Immigration and Customs Enforcement is a federal law enforcement agency that is the subject of privacy concerns regarding its access to ALPR data.
The details
Mayes is investigating allegations that data could be sold, despite Flock maintaining that no customer information has ever been sold. The inquiry also examines updated terms and conditions from February 16, 2026, which grant Flock an irrevocable and perpetual license to disclose customer data.
Timeline
February 16, 2026: Flock updated its terms and conditions regarding data ownership and licensing.
April 2026: The ACLU published an article highlighting concerns about Flock's terms of service.
October 20, 2026: Attorney General Mayes discussed the audit during a meeting in Cottonwood.
Legal Context
The attorney general's probe aligns with the 2026 Arizona legislative session, where lawmakers are expected to introduce new regulations for private surveillance tech. This action marks a broader attempt by state officials to assert control over the licensing terms imposed by data-gathering contractors.
The audit may result in new restrictions or privacy protections for residents whose license plate data is captured by these systems. Residents should monitor upcoming legislative sessions for potential changes to how local law enforcement agencies utilize automated surveillance tools.
The takeaway
Privacy advocates and local officials continue to scrutinize the fine print of contracts between municipalities and private tech providers. Residents concerned about digital surveillance should stay informed about how their local government manages data-sharing agreements with third-party vendors.
What happens next
Multiple pieces of legislation regarding Flock systems are expected to be introduced in the next legislative session.
Further reading
For additional context on investigative procedures, visit the Law Enforcement section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Verde Independent.
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