Denver considers kicking out Flock – but still using cameras

8 days ago

Denver is considering ending its contract with Flock, a company that operates license-plate reading cameras, but Mayor Mike Johnston plans to continue using the technology.
The current contract with Flock ends on March 31, and the mayor's office is evaluating new bids for the service, focusing on data retention and sharing compliance.
Flock has faced criticism for creating a mass-surveillance network, with concerns over wrongful accusations and aiding in immigration-related searches.
Denver removed its data from Flock's nationwide search system in April 2025 after over 1,400 immigration-related searches.
The City Council previously rejected a two-year contract with Flock due to public backlash, but the mayor extended the contract without approval.
Flock's cameras, installed at 70 intersections, have led to hundreds of arrests and recovered stolen vehicles, according to the mayor.
Critics, including Councilwoman Sarah Parady, argue Flock mishandles data and call for stricter regulations on surveillance technology.
The cameras photograph every passing car, cross-referencing plates with law enforcement databases, and store images for 30 days unless flagged.

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