Trump backs Flock cameras as survey finds 47% oppose them and 3 officers face alleged misuse

Flock’s automated license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras remain divisive in the United States, after investigations into alleged misuse and comments from President Donald Trump.

USA Today reported that at least 3 police officers were arrested and a fourth was fired after an investigation alleged widespread misuse of Flock technology. The reported conduct included repeatedly searching for and tracking vehicles not involved in criminal activity.

Trump said aboard Air Force One that he “sort of like[s]” the cameras because of their connection to law enforcement, while acknowledging that some people consider them an infringement. He also said he liked the cameras after a reporter said they help catch criminals.

A Reuters survey conducted by Ipsos polled 1,167 US adults. It found that 47% opposed using Flock cameras in their communities, 38% supported their use, and 16% were unsure. Democrats and independents generally opposed the cameras, while Republicans and people aged 55 or above favored them.

USA Today said at least 22 police officers had been arrested, fired, placed on leave, or put under investigation over alleged abuse of access. In Columbus, Ohio, one officer was fired after searching for a single license plate 272 times without adequate reason. Mayor Andrew Ginther said the city would pause its use of Flock cameras while it assessed whether the problem was wider.