6 hours ago
- Irmo, South Carolina city council voted 4-1 to install 22 new Flock cameras, bringing the total to 33—one camera per 300 residents, more than the number of police officers.
- Residents spoke against the cameras, citing concerns about surveillance state, data security, false arrests, and lack of community input.
- Police Chief Bobby Dale defended the cameras, claiming they helped catch pedophiles and solve crimes faster, and said they would cover all town entry points.
- Mayor Bill Danielson noted that other mayors at a conference supported Flock, despite incidents like LAPD not renewing its contract and false arrests.
- 404 Media journalist Matthew Gault presented evidence of security flaws, data leaks, and misuse, including false accusations and stalking by police.
- The council voted to expand Flock despite opposition; the mood was sour, and residents expressed anger.