Grants Police Department Removes Flock Safety Cameras Over Privacy Concerns

Drivers in Grants, New Mexico, will no longer have their license plates scanned by Flock Safety cameras. The Grants Police Department has decided to discontinue its use of these cameras, citing privacy concerns raised by the community. This change impacts four license plate readers and four additional cameras previously installed in the city.

KOAT reported that Chief Maxine Monte confirmed the decision to end the program. The cameras were initially deployed in 2022, before Monte took her current position.

What does this mean for drivers in Grants?

For anyone driving through Grants, New Mexico, the automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) from Flock Safety are no longer active. This means your vehicle's license plate will not be captured and stored by these specific law enforcement cameras.

This move addresses a key concern for drivers: the collection and storage of their travel data. When ALPRs are active, they photograph license plates and often record the time, date, and location. This data can be stored for extended periods and shared with other agencies. Understanding how ALPRs work is important for all drivers.

Why were the cameras removed?

The primary reason for the removal was community privacy concerns. Residents expressed discomfort with the data collection practices associated with the cameras.

One resident, Maggie Billiman, stated, "It's a privacy, you know, we're against it, and I don't think we should be having that." She welcomed the decision.

Chief Monte acknowledged that while the cameras had assisted in some police operations, including the apprehension of a wanted individual, community privacy was paramount. The department's focus remains on public safety and security, but through different means.

Key details of the decision include:

• Equipment: Four Flock Safety license plate readers and four additional cameras.
• Installation: Began in 2022.
• Reason for Removal: Community privacy concerns.
• Action Taken: Grants Police Department terminated three contracts with Flock Safety.

What's next for surveillance in Grants?

The Grants Police Department has requested Flock Safety to deactivate and remove all the cameras. The department is now evaluating other security technology options that might better balance community safety with privacy expectations.

Drivers interested in tracking where surveillance cameras are located can check our live camera map for updates on ALPR deployments across the country.

This situation in Grants highlights an ongoing debate in communities nationwide about the balance between public safety technology and individual privacy rights. The department will continue to explore alternatives to ensure the safety and security of the community.