Flock, a company that provides license plate-reading cameras to law enforcement, has been too slow to address instances of police officers misusing its technology, according to CEO Garrett Langley. He acknowledged that while cameras are visible to the public, which can make the company a target for criticism, Flock is implementing new features to enhance accountability.
Langley stated that police misuse of the technology has included officers using the cameras to track romantic partners, leading to some officers quitting their jobs. He also noted that police themselves often feel frustrated by a lack of proof when dealing with individuals they suspect are involved in criminal activity. "If anyone is going to be the one that spearheads getting rid of abusive cops? Sign me up," Langley said. "We trust these individuals with deadly weapons."
In response to these issues, Flock released an audit feature earlier this year. This feature automatically logs all searches conducted on Flock data and flags any unusual search behavior. The company found that the misuse of its system was so widespread that Langley decided to make the audit feature a standard offering.
"I think a camera is very far from a deadly weapon, but I would say it's a very powerful tool. We should hold it incredibly accountable," Langley commented on the company's technology. The US currently lacks a comprehensive federal law governing the collection, use, or sale of personal data, creating a complex regulatory environment for surveillance technology companies. Mixed in Washington D.C. is an unobtrusive and black Flock camera attached to a pole near an intersection.