Why Panola County Moved Some Flock Cameras to New Locations

Panola County, Texas has temporarily relocated several Flock Safety license plate reader cameras while permit issues affecting their original locations are resolved. According to the Panola County Sheriff's Office, the AI-powered cameras were moved to select county roads and will return to their planned locations once the necessary right-of-way permits are approved.

Flock Safety cameras are automated license plate reader (ALPR) systems that help law enforcement identify vehicles connected to criminal investigations.

The Panola County Sheriff's Office posted on social media earlier this week about how they first received a grant from the Texas Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority in 2025 for the installation of automated license plate reader cameras from Flock Safety.

How the Cameras Have Been Used So Far

The cameras have been helpful recently when apprehending an aggravated robbery suspect and recovering stolen property within the first few months of use, according to the sheriff.

In March of 2026 the cameras were seen on state and federal highways and farm-to-market roads for investigative purposes.

READ MORE: East Texas Petition Targets Flock Camera Program

Why the Flock Cameras Were Relocated

Panola County Sheriff Cutter Clinton said in the press release online that a small number of these cameras were temporarily moved to select county roads while right-of-way permits were resolved by Flock. Once the permits are granted the cameras will return to their regular locations.

Get our free mobile app

What Sheriff Cutter Clinton Says

Sheriff Cutter Clinton said the cameras are used for specific law enforcement purposes, including pursuing leads in criminal investigations, locating missing/endangered adults and children, locating stolen vehicles, and apprehending fugitives.

The Panola County Sheriff's Office does not use cameras for traffic enforcement, collecting fines or fees, or selling data to private parties. The cameras are not audible and do not involve a continuous live video feed, according to the PCSO.

Intentionally damaging a Flock camera could result in criminal charges under Texas law.

What do you think about Flock cameras? Let us know in the comments or send us an email. Email me anytime at billy.jenkins@townsquaremedia.com.