Flock cameras in Milwaukee, city officials raise privacy concerns
Milwaukee Common Council voices concern over Flock camera use
In a formal letter to Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman and the Fire and Police Commission, city leaders are sounding the alarm on local law enforcement’s use of Flock license plate readers.
MILWAUKEE - In a formal letter to Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman and the Fire and Police Commission, Milwaukee Common Council members are sounding the alarm on local law enforcement’s use of Flock license plate readers. The letter highlights a string of local privacy abuses—including three MPD officers investigated for misusing the system to track personal contacts—and points out that cities across Wisconsin are severing ties with Flock altogether.
Flock camera
Common Council letter
What we know:
Council members are demanding full access to MPD’s search history and sharing agreements. They are urging the department to adopt stricter safeguards, including a seven-day data retention limit and independent auditing.
With a deadline set for Sept. 30, officials warn that future funding for the camera program will be heavily scrutinized during upcoming 2027 budget deliberations.
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Flock security camera in Germantown park causing controversy
Flock Safety has sparked another controversy in southeast Wisconsin, this time over a camera at Germantown's Kinderberg Park.
What they're saying:
The Milwaukee Police Department released a statement stating:
"The Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) respects and values the concerns and positions of our elected officials. We will work with the FPC to address our Council members’ concerns and respond to the Council after we have carefully reviewed their request and can provide a factual and thoughtful response. The exchange of information, positions and ideas between MPD and our elected officials is important as we both serve the same community. MPD is committed to transparency and engaging in important dialogue such as this."
Flock camera
Big picture view:
The Fire and Police Commission heard a recent update from MPD that was comprehensive. The commission is currently in the process of conducting its own independent audit related to the Flock system and plans on responding in a timely manner, according to Executive Director Leon Todd.
Portions of this article were formatted using A.I. FOX6’s staff and an editor reviewed it for accuracy and tone prior to publishing.
The Source: Information in this story was gathered from a formal letter signed by Milwaukee Common Council members, a statement from the Milwaukee Police Department and a statement from Fire and Police Commission Executive Director Leon Todd.