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Flock Safety, a private security firm known for its license plate readers, will soon leave Ithaca following a unanimous vote by the Ithaca Common Council on Wednesday (March 4). The decision comes after months of public pressure concerning privacy and sanctuary city protections. The council's resolution mandates the removal of all 22 Flock Safety cameras within city limits, with the termination of the contract to occur as soon as legally possible.
The resolution, introduced by Alderperson Robin Trumble, cited concerns over privacy violations and the potential misuse of surveillance data. Trumble emphasized the importance of protecting civil liberties and maintaining community trust. The decision aligns with Ithaca's sanctuary city status, which aims to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
The vote followed a demonstration organized by the local group "Flock Off Ithaca," which has been vocal in opposing Flock Safety's presence in the city. Activists expressed concerns about data sharing with federal agencies and the potential for misuse of surveillance technology. According to the Ithaca Times, Flock Safety's technology has been used in immigration enforcement, raising alarm among sanctuary-oriented communities.
Ithaca Police Chief Thomas Kelly defended the use of Flock Safety cameras, highlighting their role in solving crimes. However, concerns about transparency and data governance persisted. Mayor Robert Cantelmo expressed his conflicted feelings, acknowledging the technology's benefits but ultimately siding with the council's decision to prioritize civil liberties.
The termination of the contract requires Flock Safety to remove all equipment from city property within 14 days of the resolution's enactment. Despite the city's decision, Flock Safety remains active in Tompkins County and other nearby areas. The county plans to review its use of Flock technology in light of Ithaca's resolution.