Dutchess County officials end Flock Safety license plate reader program

Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi and Sheriff Kirk Imperati have announced they are withdrawing support for the county’s use of Flock Safety technology. The decision follows community pushback expressed during a series of public forums regarding the automated license plate reader system.

Flock Safety technology is used by law enforcement to capture vehicle information to assist in investigations involving serious crimes, missing persons, and stolen vehicles. While both officials previously supported the tool, they stated that resident feedback prompted a reconsideration of its use. Parisi noted that as elected officials, they must be responsive to the public, while Imperati acknowledged that even if a technology is useful, the government should not continue using it when citizens raise serious concerns.

The officials will now work with county leadership to manage the discontinuation of the program, which includes reviewing existing contracts and operational obligations. Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino expressed support for the decision, noting that approximately $500,000 in funds could potentially be redirected.