Debate Over Flock Safety’s License Plate Readers in Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Bureau of Street Lighting has been primarily focused on maintaining the city’s streetlamps for over a century. Recently, however, it has become embroiled in controversy due to its involvement with Flock Safety, a company that provides surveillance technology. This includes the installation of automated license plate readers that are mounted on municipal light poles.

Flock Safety, based in Atlanta, collaborates with about 5,000 law enforcement agencies across the United States. The company has drawn criticism for allegedly sharing data with federal authorities, such as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Despite this, agencies in Los Angeles, including the LAPD, continue to work with Flock. The controversy stems from concerns about privacy and immigrant rights, which led some cities to sever ties with the company.

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has been pushing to accelerate the installation of these readers across the city. Emails obtained by public records requests show advocacy from LAPD supporters, homeowner associations, and elected officials to expedite the installations. Despite criticism, the LAPD maintains that the technology is compliant with California laws limiting data sharing with federal entities.

The Bureau of Street Lighting Director, Clinton Tsurui, has expressed concerns over the rapid installation of the readers due to potential hazards. Some light poles in the city may not support the weight of the Flock readers, particularly during high winds.

There have been calls for greater transparency around the LAPD’s use of this technology. The Police Commission has instructed the department to provide detailed reports on the data collected and shared. An audit of the LAPD’s usage of Flock’s technology is expected soon. Councilmember Ysabel Jurado has introduced a motion to restrict further agreements with Flock Safety.

Pressure from community groups and council offices for more readers continues. The Los Angeles Police Foundation, a nonprofit group supporting the LAPD, has been vocal about speeding up the process. It has facilitated donations of Flock cameras, mainly placed in affluent neighborhoods. The foundation has requested waivers on fees associated with the installation, citing them as obstacles to public safety.

Behind-the-scenes lobbying efforts also play a role. Flock Safety had offered donations of plate readers to combat issues like copper theft and has been in discussions with city officials about partnerships. This includes talks with former councilmember Joe Buscaino, who has since taken on a lobbying role.

After recent wildfires, Flock stepped in with offers of free plate readers for affected areas like the Pacific Palisades. These efforts add to the ongoing discussions and the urgency felt by many stakeholders about how the city’s surveillance strategy will develop.