Privacy Concerns Rise Over Use of Automated Cameras in Flagstaff
In Flagstaff, a wave of concern has emerged among residents regarding the city’s use of automated cameras to collect vehicle data. This week, a group of citizens took action by presenting a petition to the city council, urging them to terminate their contract with Flock Safety.
The primary worry shared by the petitioners is the potential invasion of privacy these cameras pose, as well as their possible use in aiding federal immigration enforcement. Brendan Trachsel, a key organizer of the petition, highlighted past instances of misuse in other cities.
“Quite frankly, they’re ripe for abuse. We’ve seen plenty of stories of police officers using it to stalk their ex-girlfriends,” Trachsel remarked. “Texas is looking at cameras in Illinois and other states to prosecute suspected abortions, which in many of these states are protected under state law, but not in Texas.”
The city council of Flagstaff had initially approved the implementation of these cameras in June of last year, without a public discussion, as part of routine budgetary approvals. The technology captures license plate numbers and details such as vehicle models, colors, signs of damage, and even bumper stickers.
Data collected is then processed by artificial intelligence, which can incorporate it into a national database. Law enforcement officials argue that these cameras are a valuable resource in tackling complex crimes, including hit-and-runs, as well as human and drug trafficking.
Despite their intended purpose, the cameras have sparked controversy in other parts of northern Arizona. Recently, the city council of Sedona decided to suspend its Flock camera program following public outcry.
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