Hawley launches investigation into Flock Safety over privacy, data concerns
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
WASHINGTON (KBSI) — U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri has launched an investigation into Flock Safety over the company’s collection, retention and sharing of data gathered through its artificial intelligence-powered surveillance cameras.
Hawley, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism, sent a letter Wednesday, Aug. 26, to Flock Safety CEO Garrett Langley requesting information about how the company handles data collected by its camera network.
In the letter, Hawley said Flock has more than 120,000 cameras across 49 states and processes more than 20 billion vehicle scans each month.
The cameras, which include automated license plate readers, are used by law enforcement agencies across the country to assist with investigations.
Hawley raised concerns about who can access information collected through the network and how that information can be used or shared.
The Missouri Republican pointed to an audit involving the St. Charles County Police Department. Hawley said the department terminated a civilian employee after an audit found the employee had allegedly conducted Flock searches for personal reasons unrelated to law enforcement duties.
Hawley also cited cases outside Missouri involving alleged misuse of license plate searches and incorrect alerts. He argued that the examples raise questions about safeguards designed to prevent unauthorized use and errors.
“I am investigating Flock Safety’s collection, retention, and dissemination of the data generated by its artificial intelligence surveillance cameras,” Hawley wrote.
Hawley said he supports giving law enforcement tools to catch offenders and protect the public but argued that Americans should not give up their privacy rights while conducting everyday activities.
He also questioned how driver data could be used commercially once it is collected and how long information is stored.
Hawley is requesting documents and information from Flock Safety regarding its data practices, access to information and safeguards surrounding the system.
The company has been given until Sept. 8 to provide the requested materials.
