Everett shuts down Flock camera network after judge rules footage public record
5 hours ago
- #public-records
- #privacy
- #surveillance
- Everett shuts down Flock license plate reader cameras after a court ruling.
- A Snohomish County judge ruled the footage is a public record under Washington law.
- Jose Rodriguez requested the footage to understand data collection by Flock cameras.
- Flock cameras capture thousands of images, even if vehicles aren't linked to crimes.
- Everett's mayor expressed concerns about potential misuse of the footage by criminals.
- Everett temporarily turned off all 68 Flock cameras following the ruling.
- State lawmakers are debating a bill to exempt Flock footage from public records.
- Supporters argue public access could pose safety risks, including misuse by immigration agents.
- Opponents say public records requests are slow and impractical for real-time tracking.
- Everett may reactivate cameras if legislation allows shielding data from public disclosure.