US Cities and Counties Move to Ban Flock Safety Cameras

Local governments across the United States are moving to restrict or terminate contracts with Flock Safety Inc. following widespread public outcry over privacy and transparency. In Fort Wayne, Indiana, the City Council voted unanimously on August 25 to cancel its contract for automatic license plate reader cameras, citing the need to protect civil liberties and constitutional rights.

Similar actions are unfolding in Massachusetts and Virginia. The New Bedford City Council voted unanimously to draft an ordinance banning the cameras after a police officer was placed on leave for allegedly using the system to track an ex-girlfriend. While New Bedford Police Chief Jason Thody suspended the use of 20 cameras pending an investigation, Mayor Jon Mitchell has indicated he may veto a total ban in favor of restrictive guidelines.

In Lynchburg, Virginia, the police department paused the use of 15 cameras to conduct an audit of policies and training. The City Council is currently considering resolutions that would either require warrants for data access or terminate the contract entirely, with a vote scheduled for September 8.

Meanwhile, in Valley County, Nebraska, the County Commission held a public hearing to address resident concerns regarding seven county-owned cameras. While some state officials and the Nebraska Association of County Officials support the technology as a tool for rural law enforcement, the board is now developing additional safeguards to ensure data is only released with the sheriff's approval.