Key facts
- Rep. Thomas Massie plans legislation to withhold federal funding from agencies deploying Flock cameras.
- Local governments are suspending, canceling, or reconsidering Flock camera deployments due to public opposition.
- Concerns include potential misuse of Flock data for stalking and surveillance.
- Flock CEO Garrett Langley apologized for calling anti-surveillance activists 'terrorists'.
- The Los Angeles Police Department suspended its partnership with Flock over privacy and data concerns.
Growing privacy concerns surrounding Flock Safety's automated license plate reader cameras are reaching Capitol Hill, prompting legislative action and leading local governments to re-evaluate their use of the technology. Representative Thomas Massie announced plans to introduce a bill that would cut federal funding for agencies deploying Flock cameras.
The backlash stems from evidence suggesting the technology's use extends beyond its stated purposes of investigating crimes and locating missing persons. Reports indicate instances of law enforcement officers allegedly using automated license plate reader systems to stalk romantic partners, with prosecutors charging officers in Milwaukee for such actions. Privacy advocates also point to the querying of license plate databases during protests and investigations, such as an abortion case in Texas.
Public opposition has manifested in direct action, with activists across the country vandalizing and obstructing Flock cameras. Online communities share information on camera locations and methods to avoid or disable them, though some individuals face criminal charges for property destruction.
Flock Safety, founded in 2017, states its cameras capture vehicle images, read plates, and identify characteristics without using facial recognition, typically retaining data for 30 days. CEO Garrett Langley has apologized for referring to anti-surveillance activists as 'terrorists,' acknowledging the need to balance public safety and privacy concerns. He stated that understanding the technology's actual function—photographing cars—often reassures the public.
Despite Flock's assurances, scrutiny continues. The Los Angeles Police Department suspended its partnership due to privacy, data sharing, and contract concerns. Monroe County, Indiana, voted to terminate its contract early, even as officials acknowledged the cameras' role in solving crimes. Leon County, Florida, also delayed funding for additional cameras following public questioning.