Investigations And Vandalism Of Flock Cameras Surge As 'Surveillance State' Concerns Escalate

Sen. Josh Hawley said he will investigate Flock Safety’s AI-powered license plate reader cameras, focusing on how the company collects, retains, and shares data. The move comes amid intensifying skepticism about a growing “surveillance state” and follows multiple government actions against the devices. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis urged lawmakers to curb Florida’s estimated 7,000 to 10,000 automated license plate readers. Christiansburg, Virginia ended its Flock contract and asked the cameras be removed, and other cities in Massachusetts, North Carolina, Minnesota, and Florida followed. In Dallas and other cities, reported vandalism has led to felony charges for damaging cameras.