Fort Mitchell Terminates Contract for Flock Safety License Plate Readers Amid Public Outcry
The city of Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, has announced the immediate termination of its contract with Flock Safety and the dismantling of five automated license plate readers. Mayor Greg Pohlgeers cited growing public concern regarding mass surveillance, data security, and potential Fourth Amendment violations as primary reasons for the decision. The city had initially entered into a 24-month contract with Flock Safety in 2024, investing $34,000 in the devices. These readers are designed to capture vehicle license plates, make, color, and model, converting this information into searchable data for law enforcement. The decision to end the program followed a town hall meeting where residents, including information technology professional Greg Given, voiced significant apprehension about the technology's surveillance capabilities and its impact on privacy. Several city council members also expressed concerns, leading to the mayor's decision to prioritize public trust over the continued use of the technology. 
