New Bedford Police's Use of Flock Cameras Sparks Privacy Concerns
The New Bedford Police Department has installed 20 Flock cameras, also known as automatic license plate readers, throughout the city. These devices capture data on every vehicle that passes by, contributing to a network accessible by numerous law enforcement agencies. While police assert that the system aids in solving crimes such as shootings and vehicle thefts, privacy concerns have arisen among residents. Critics worry about potential misuse of data and its use in federal immigration enforcement. The city council is evaluating its authority over the system, and a public meeting is scheduled to discuss these concerns.