Florida Highway Patrol Distributed Body Cameras
The state agency began outfitting troopers with body-worn cameras to capture audio and video during enforcement.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Law Enforcement
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The Florida Highway Patrol initiated a rollout of Motorola Solutions body-worn cameras to troopers across the state starting August 24, 2026. This deployment marks a shift in how the agency captures evidence, as they previously relied exclusively on dash-mounted systems.
Why it matters
The transition to body cameras provides a critical way to record audio and video after vendors failed to supply requested lapel-attached microphones for existing systems. This upgrade aligns the agency with broader standards, as over 80% of sheriff's offices in the state already utilize this technology.
As of September 23, 2026, 400 personnel have received the new devices. The rollout currently progresses in batches by region, with distribution in the Miami area scheduled to conclude by late November.
The players
Florida Highway Patrol
This state agency is responsible for enforcing traffic laws and investigating crashes on public roads throughout Florida.
Motorola Solutions
The company is a global provider of public safety communications and video security systems used by various law enforcement agencies.
The details
Troopers can activate the cameras manually or through automatic triggers linked to vehicle sensors, such as lights and sirens or crash events. While most troopers receive standard units, captains are equipped with specialized devices that record audio only.
Timeline
FHP began utilizing dash-mounted cameras in 2017.
The agency notified troopers of the rollout plan on August 10, 2026.
Troopers in Orlando received their equipment between August 24 and September 12, 2026.
Approximately 400 personnel had received cameras by September 23, 2026.
Miami area distribution is scheduled from October 19 to November 21, 2026.
Legal Context
The transition to body cameras follows a widespread trend where the vast majority of local law enforcement partners in the region have already integrated this technology. This move brings the state agency in line with the surveillance standards already adopted by 80% of Florida sheriff's offices.
The use of body cameras is intended to provide a more comprehensive record of interactions between troopers and the public. Residents may encounter new protocols during traffic stops as troopers begin utilizing these devices to document activity.
The takeaway
The addition of body cameras marks a significant technological update for the agency after years of relying solely on dash-mounted systems. This expansion aims to bridge the gap in audio-video recording capabilities for personnel operating outside of their patrol vehicles.
What happens next
Distribution in the Fort Myers and Bradenton area is scheduled for October 5 to 16, 2026, followed by the Lake Worth area from October 11 to November 13, 2026, and the Miami area from October 19 to November 21, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on state policy changes, visit Law Enforcement.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Tcpalm.
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