Chandler Police to Halt Use of AI Surveillance Cameras Amid Misuse Concerns
In a significant move reflecting community concerns and internal scrutiny, the Chandler Police Department is ceasing its collaboration with Flock, an AI-driven license plate camera company. This decision follows an internal audit uncovering potential misuse by a department employee, alongside public backlash voiced at city council meetings.
Currently, the Chandler City Council is deliberating the potential termination of the contract with Flock Safety. Meanwhile, 40 automated license plate reader cameras are still active throughout Chandler.
The Flock cameras are designed to capture vehicle license plates and details, aiding police investigations through artificial intelligence technology. Chandler Police Chief Bryan Chapman stated, “Flock is well aware of our intention to sunset those,” adding that measures such as covering the cameras would provide public assurance that they are inactive.
Chief Chapman expressed concerns about the impact on future investigations, acknowledging, “We would be significantly behind the curve in trying to find and address some of these issues. So, certainly, this slows down our investigative capacities.” Despite the drawbacks, Chapman remains a proponent of the technology’s role in law enforcement efforts.
The responsibility for dismantling the remaining cameras now rests with Flock, as the city has relinquished access. This decision precedes further discussions scheduled for the upcoming City Council meeting.
