Crystal Police End Use of Flock License Plate Readers Following Community Concerns
CRYSTAL MN: - The Crystal Police Department says it is ending its use of Flock Safety automatic license plate readers and has removed the six cameras it received from the company following questions and concerns raised by community members.
In a letter to the community Tuesday, Sept. 9, Crystal Police Chief Brian Hubbard said the department made the decision after receiving feedback about its use of automatic license plate readers, commonly known as ALPRs.
“Based on the questions that have been raised and the feedback we’ve received from community members who engaged us, we have made the decision to end our service with Flock Safety for the ALPRs we have in Crystal,” Hubbard wrote.
The department said all six Flock ALPRs have been physically removed and are in the process of being returned to the company. Police have also turned off existing data sharing with other agencies for the remainder of the department's current retention period.
Hubbard said the department had previously called for a “pause” in its use of Flock ALPRs but has now determined that completely ending its involvement with the system is the best path forward.
The decision follows a community information meeting held last week to discuss the technology. Hubbard described the conversation as engaging and respectful.
According to the department, the technology had been beneficial in helping police solve crimes, recover property, arrest suspects and bring cases forward for victims. However, Hubbard acknowledged concerns raised by residents about privacy, data collection and sharing, state laws and the potential for misuse.
“We hear and understand the issues that have been expressed including privacy concerns, data collection and sharing, state laws, and the potential for misconduct,” Hubbard wrote.
The chief said those concerns will need to be considered as the department evaluates any new technology in the future.
Hubbard said the decision to separate from Flock reflects the department's mission and the importance it places on community feedback.
The announcement comes amid broader scrutiny in communities across the country over how automated license plate reader systems collect, retain and share vehicle information.