INDEPENDENCE, Ky. (LEX News) — City leaders in Independence have issued a statement regarding the removal of the city's Flock Safety camera system.
In a news release posted Monday, the City of Independence said it is discontinuing the use of the automated license plate reader cameras after hearing concerns from residents about privacy and government surveillance.
The city said the cameras were originally installed as a public safety tool designed to help law enforcement locate stolen vehicles, identify vehicles connected to criminal investigations and assist in finding missing persons. Officials emphasized that the cameras do not record video and are intended to capture license plate information and vehicle characteristics.
According to the city, feedback from residents prompted officials to re-evaluate the program and ultimately decide to remove the cameras. The statement says city leaders remain committed to balancing public safety needs with residents' privacy concerns.
The announcement comes as communities across Kentucky and the country continue debating the benefits and privacy implications of automated license plate reader technology.
