Automatic license plate readers are becoming a growing point of controversy across Texas, with law enforcement officials pointing to the technology's role in solving crimes while some policymakers raise concerns about privacy and government surveillance.

Flock cameras use automated license plate recognition technology to capture license plates and help investigators identify vehicles that may be connected to criminal investigations.

Andy Kahan, director of victim services and advocacy for Crime Stoppers of Houston, says the technology has become an important investigative tool - particularly in cases where investigators may have few witnesses or other leads.