Destroying a Flock Camera Could Lead to Criminal Charges in Texas

Intentionally damaging a Flock Safety license plate reader camera in Texas can lead to criminal charges, depending on the circumstances and the value of the damaged property. Anyone accused of destroying one could face charges such as criminal mischief, trespass or other offenses under Texas law if investigators determine a crime occurred.

Are Flock Cameras Legal in Texas?

In Texas, destroying a Flock Safety ALPR (license plate reader) camera could expose you to criminal charges for property damage, possible theft, and related offenses, with penalties ranging from fines to jail time depending on the value of the property and your criminal history.

READ MORE: East Texas Petition Targets Flock Camera Program

What Texas Laws Could Apply?

Flock cameras are mounted on public or private property and are considered tangible property. Under Texas law, willfully damaging or destroying property you do not own can violate:

Texas Penal Code § 28.03 (Criminal Mischief) – damaging property worth $500 or more is a Class A misdemeanor; if the value is higher or if there are aggravating factors, it can be a felony.

Texas Penal Code § 31.03 (Theft by Destruction) – if the destruction is intended to deprive the owner of the property’s value, it can be charged as theft, depending on the circumstances, additional theft-related charges could also apply.

Texas Penal Code § 30.05 (Criminal Trespass) – if the camera is on private property and you enter without permission, you could also face trespass charges.

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How Serious Are the Potential Penalties?

The value of the property (camera, mounting pole, wiring, etc.) is important. Texas courts often use the cost to replace or repair the property. If the total value exceeds $500, it can be a Class A misdemeanor; over $2,000 can be a felony.

There is currently a man in Virginia facing 13 counts of destruction of property, 6 counts of petit larceny, and 6 counts of possession of burglary tools after destroying 13 cameras. If the same case were tried in Texas, prosecutors could charge an individual similarly.

In simple terms, destroying a Flock camera is a criminal act under Texas law. It doesn't matter if the camera is on public property, you can still be held responsible for damages and theft by destruction. People accused of intentionally damaging Flock cameras could face criminal charges under Texas law.

@1015knue @Billy Jenkins & @Tara Holley in the Morning on 101.5 KNUE Flock Cameras are popping up all over East Texas... and people have STRONG opinions. Some say they're a great tool for helping law enforcement catch criminals. Others say they're a major invasion of privacy. Where do YOU stand? Are Flock Cameras making East Texas safer, or are they going too far? Drop your thoughts in the comments! We might talk about your response on the radio tomorrow morning! #EastTexas #TylerTX #FlockCameras #PrivacyVsSafety #BillyAndTara ♬ original sound - 1015KNUE