Newport, RI approves Flock Safety drones as privacy debate grows

The Newport City Council voted unanimously to sign a three‑year, $375,000 contract with Flock Group Inc. for a pilot program using autonomous Flock Safety drones. The drones can fly up to 60 mph, stream thermal video, and read license plates from 2,000 feet. Police Chief Ryan Duffy said they will be dispatched to 911 calls, reaching emergency scenes in about 90 seconds to give first responders real‑time situational awareness and preserve critical evidence. The program is also supported by fire chief Harp Donnelly and is partially funded by private donor Peter Kiernan.

Separately, a Florida driver discovered a concealed Flock license‑plate camera hidden behind a radar speed‑monitoring trailer, reigniting public criticism of the company’s surveillance equipment. The video posted online showed the camera’s placement, prompting debate on Reddit about the legality and transparency of such hidden devices. Advocates argue the cameras help recover stolen vehicles and aid law enforcement, while opponents raise concerns over privacy, data sharing, and covert monitoring.

Both incidents illustrate the expanding use of Flock Safety’s technology across U.S. municipalities and the accompanying community concerns about surveillance and civil liberties.