Galesburg police are reviewing their 10 Flock Safety license plate reader cameras after Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias alleged the company violated state law by sharing data with federal border officials and out-of-state police for prohibited uses, including immigration and abortion-related enforcement.
Secretary of state cites data misuse
Capitol News Illinois reported that Giannoulias accuses Flock Safety, which provides Galesburg’s 10 license plate reader cameras, of violating a 2023 state law by sharing data with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and out-of-state law enforcement for prohibited purposes, including immigration enforcement and abortion-related investigations.
The secretary of state alleges Flock’s national network, connecting 2800 agencies across 40 states, lacks required written declarations ensuring data is not used to target individuals based on protected characteristics like race, religion, or gender. Giannoulias said the company’s actions “put them in direct violation of Illinois law” in a video statement Monday.
Police chief emphasizes compliance
The Galesburg Police Department, which installed the cameras in 2023 to combat crimes like carjacking and vehicle theft, is reassessing their use.
“The Galesburg Police Department is committed to leveraging technology effectively to enhance community safety and reduce crime,” Chief Kevin Legate told WGIL.
“Our approach to technology and data sharing is guided by strict adherence to all applicable laws, regulations, and best practices, including compliance with all Flock Safety user agreements regarding data sharing with outside agencies.”
Ongoing review of camera program
Legate said the department is conducting a “due diligence review” to confirm Flock Safety’s data-sharing policies align with original assurances.
“We are currently evaluating our use of Flock Safety cameras,” he said. “While the technology offers significant benefits for locating and apprehending individuals involved in serious crimes, recent events have prompted a thorough review.
“We are currently in the process of ensuring we have a robust understanding of all factors before making a final determination on the program’s future.”
Local context and state implications
In Dec. 2023, Galesburg City Council approved the purchase of five license plate reader cameras, with the Galesburg Police Department now using 10 Flock Safety cameras. The vote was 5-2, with Ward 4 Council member Dwight White and Ward 6’s Sarah Davis opposed, citing a lack of “checks and balances” for the cameras’ use.
At least one city, Evanston, has deactivated its Flock cameras and begun canceling its contract, calling the situation “deeply troubling.” Flock’s CEO, Garrett Langley, wrote in a blog post that the company “clearly communicated poorly” and lacked distinct protocols to ensure compliance for federal users.
Capitol News Illinois contributed to this report. For its complete story, click here.
