Joliet Junior College Faces Scrutiny Over Flock Camera Data Access by Federal Immigration Agents
Joliet Junior College (JJC) is under scrutiny due to its contract with Flock Safety, a company that provides automatic license plate readers. Public records indicate that data captured by Flock cameras on JJC's campus was directly accessed by federal immigration agents last year. This revelation has caused concern among students, particularly Latino students who comprise a third of the college's enrollment. Lui Rodriguez, a 26-year-old student, expressed shock and a feeling of 'backstab' regarding the college's contract with Flock, stating that the surveillance technology undermines the sense of belonging and safety the college strives to create. Katie Smith, a spokesperson for JJC, stated that college leaders and campus police proactively review access to Flock data and take any misuse seriously, emphasizing the college's commitment to a welcoming and inclusive environment while ensuring campus safety. The college's contract with Flock is scheduled for renewal in July 2027.
