Flock Safety camera renewal sparks privacy debate in Cleveland

Flock Safety operates a nationwide network of more than 100,000 AI‑powered license‑plate readers that also capture Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi signals, creating detailed movement profiles of vehicles and phones. Critics argue the system violates the Fourth Amendment by enabling warrantless mass surveillance, noting that cities such as Denver have voted to dismantle the cameras over privacy concerns.

In Cleveland, the City Council’s Safety Committee approved a six‑month renewal of the city’s contract with Flock, extending the use of 100 cameras despite activist opposition. The renewal reduces the annual cost from $250,000 to $125,000 for the six‑month term. Officials cite the cameras’ role in solving multiple violent crimes, while activists highlight 2,500 immigration‑related lookups last year and the broader risk of permanent location tracking. ICE access to the system has been blocked since November, and the cameras remain inaccessible to outside agencies.