Residents raise privacy concerns about Flock cameras; police defend program

Residents urged the Taylor City Council to review the municipal use of Flock surveillance cameras, citing cybersecurity vulnerabilities, the risk of misuse by officers and possible access by outside agencies. One resident asked the city to consider suspending camera use until stronger safeguards and policies are in place.

A resident who spoke described wide-ranging concerns: data storage, who has access, and the potential for misuse across jurisdictions. He asked the council to "consider suspending use of the cameras until we can have some safe guard put in place." The comment referenced news reports from other cities where cameras had been misused, and urged council members to put the issue on a future agenda.

Police officials responded in detail, describing the practical benefits of the Flock program and its uses in investigations. The chief said the program has helped "catch tons of bad guys" and cited a local sting that led to arrests: "We had 14 people that we busted in a sting." A departmental representative described internal safeguards, saying partner agencies require approval and that every plate run requires a reason or case number; the official stated the system contains an immigration-block that automatically declines queries labeled for immigration and that the city had "0 federal partners." The official said there is "no way you're using this for immigration enforcement."

Council members said they will review the issues raised and consult with police and experts about policy and safeguards. No immediate policy change or suspension was ordered at the meeting.