Local Officials Debate Flock License Plate Reader Surveillance

Local governments in Florida and North Carolina are facing mounting public opposition to the use of Flock automatic license plate reader cameras. In Lake County, Florida, residents urged commissioners on July 28 to remove the technology, citing constitutional rights violations. This demand follows an incident in Sumter County, Florida, where the sheriff's office suspended camera use after a deputy allegedly used the system to track a husband's ex-partner.

In New Hanover County, North Carolina, commissioners are questioning the system's legality and funding. LeAnn Pierce, the commission chair, indicated she is seeking more information before supporting future spending, while Commissioner Dane Scalise described the situation as a conflict between public safety and civil liberties. The county currently operates 20 cameras under a $219,000 contract as part of a transition from a state pilot program to a permanent statewide initiative.

Sheriff Ed McMahon defended the technology, stating that the readers provide objective information and do not utilize live surveillance or facial recognition. He argued the systems are essential for solving homicides, robberies, and narcotics cases. New Hanover County officials plan to further discuss the issue at an August 17 meeting, where the advocacy group DeFlock is scheduled to speak.