Cities cover Flock license plate readers amid privacy concerns
IN SHORT
Cities are scrutinizing contracts with Flock Safety over privacy concerns and alleged policy violations. Some residents and officials are covering the cameras, while others are terminating contracts. Flock maintains its technology is crucial for crime deterrence and complies with federal law.
Key Numbers
33%spike in auto thefts in Richmond, CA when cameras were off
May 1press conference date for Dayton City Manager
Who's Involved
Flock Safety
Company providing automated license plate readers facing backlash
Shelley Dickstein
City Manager of Dayton, Ohio, who described policy violations
Dayton, Ohio
City where workers covered license plate readers
Evanston, Illinois
City that terminated its contract with Flock
↳ Why This Matters
Flock Safety's automated license plate readers (ALPRs) have become widespread, but are now facing increasing scrutiny from residents, local officials, and privacy advocates across the US. Concerns range from alleged policy violations and improper data sharing, including immigration-related searches, to potential errors in the technology itself. This has led some cities to cover the cameras or terminate their contracts, while Flock maintains the technology is vital for public safety and crime deterrence.