Babcock Ranch residents debate use of license plate reader cameras in their community

People in Babcock Ranch are divided over the presence of automatic license plate reader cameras at the entrances to their community, which officials say have been in place for four years.

"I personally think cameras add to the public safety," said Nannette Cassidy.

Others believe the community could manage without them.

"I think that we would probably be okay if we watch out for each other rather than having the government overreach," said Anthony Raimondi.

According to Babcock Ranch representatives, the cameras are not part of a continuous recorded feed, but they do share information with law enforcement when necessary.

"Two things can be right at the same time, I mean, yes, we want safety in the community, but at the same time, people want to feel safe and they don't want to feel like they're being watched all the time."

Officials claim the cameras have contributed to crime prevention, including the recovery of a stolen car. However, some residents remain uneasy about the increasing use of these types of cameras as it grows across the Gulf Coast.

"I think I'm in the middle of both sides, but I can definitely see from a safety perspective," said Jake, another resident. "I'm on the fence of being in the pros, because it does present a way to monitor, you know, the safety of the community."

Officials confirmed the cameras in Babcock Ranch are not Flock branded and work with motion sensors, only going off when cars pass by.