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Resident warns Jefferson County board about Flock automated‑license‑plate cameras and privacy risks
Summary
A Fort Atkinson resident told the county board that Flock Safety cameras collect more than license plates, aggregate searchable data without clear oversight, and have had security incidents; he urged more oversight and transparency.
During general public comment, Calvin Fistnik of Fort Atkinson identified himself and urged the board to scrutinize the county’s use of Flock Safety cameras.
Fistnik said the cameras described as license‑plate readers actually photograph every passing vehicle and log model, color, stickers and other identifying features into a searchable database that can be accessed without a warrant. He told supervisors such systems “track the day‑to‑day movements of everyone” and noted that agencies sharing feeds can expand access across jurisdictions.
He also described security problems: researchers and community volunteers have discovered instances where camera feeds were exposed on the internet and where officers misused access in past cases in Wisconsin and Milwaukee. He said the Flock CEO has publicly criticized groups that document camera placement and advocated for removal of those cameras from public maps. He urged more oversight, transparency, and guardrails to prevent misuse.
The board took the comment under advisement; no formal action was taken during the meeting.
