Residents urge independent oversight of license-plate readers and camera vendors at Thornton council meeting

During the public-comment portion of the Thornton City Council meeting, several residents urged the council to strengthen oversight of automated license-plate readers (ALPR) and private camera networks such as Flock to prevent misuse and protect vulnerable residents.

Chris Cook cited national news reports and court cases where officers or others used ALPR systems and associated analytics to track intimate partners and alleged a disturbing pattern of misuse. “This makes me wonder how many more cases are out there that have never seen the light of day,” he said, urging an independent oversight committee to "watch the watchers." Katrina Whitehead, who described prior work as an advocate at domestic-violence shelters, said the technology can jeopardize people fleeing abusers, arguing the city must evaluate how adoption of such systems could put victims at risk.

Speakers asked the council to require stronger safeguards, greater transparency about where and how ALPR data is stored, limits on retention and access, and an independent review mechanism. Council members did not take action during public comment, but Mayor Pro Tem Ayala noted a planned police-community technology engagement session in July that would address new technologies used by the city and suggested it as an opportunity for discussion.

Council members acknowledged the public safety benefits of technology but also the need to balance privacy concerns and provide responsive community oversight. No formal policy change was adopted at the meeting; council members and staff were asked to follow up and provide community engagement opportunities on the topic.