Flock's Webinars Reveal Invasive Surveillance Techniques for Protest Monitoring

In a revealing webinar, Flock Technologies showcased to law enforcement how they could utilize their surveillance systems to monitor protests like the No Kings demonstrations. The session, led by Caity Peak, Flock's director of market management, highlighted the integration of automatic license plate readers (ALPRs), drones, and other surveillance technologies to create a comprehensive monitoring tool for police.

Peak noted the capabilities of FlockOS, the software that combines live video feeds from various sources, including ALPRs and social media, into a single interface. This system allows police to maintain situational awareness during events such as protests, parades, and public celebrations without having officers on the ground, which could escalate tensions.

As she illustrated with the example of the No Kings Protest in Denver, Peak explained how officers could see traffic patterns and respond proactively if a protest began to obstruct roadways. "I can see the response plan included, pull it up if needed, and monitor live video as the protest unfolds," she stated, emphasizing the potential for real-time intervention without direct police presence.

The implications of such surveillance practices extend beyond just monitoring protests. Flock's technology is being marketed to police departments across the U.S., with claims that its ALPR systems are primarily used for solving serious crimes. However, investigations by organizations like the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) and 404 Media revealed that Flock's cameras have been employed actively to track protests and other First Amendment activities, raising concerns about privacy and civil liberties.

Former police officer and current Flock employee, Matt Patin, elaborated on the dashboard's features, which include access to body camera footage and various data streams to enhance situational awareness. Furthermore, Peak recounted her own experiences as an officer, emphasizing the strategic placement of ALPRs at event hotspots to optimize surveillance capabilities.

Flock's approach to policing events, including potential car shows that could escalate into disturbances, demonstrates a broader trend in law enforcement relying on technology for predictive policing. The company promotes its systems as essential tools for modern policing, encouraging police to think proactively about surveillance.

As Flock continues to expand its reach—reportedly providing services to over 4,800 municipalities—concerns grow regarding the normalization of extensive surveillance in everyday civic life. The methods demonstrated in the webinar reveal a shift toward a surveillance-first approach in public safety strategies, challenging the balance between security and individual rights.

Source: www.404media.co