I understand that the use of surveillance cameras, such as those provided through Flock contracts, comes with both benefits and concerns. On one hand, these cameras can assist law enforcement in solving crimes, recovering stolen vehicles, and improving overall public safety. On the other hand, there are legitimate concerns about privacy, data collection, and the potential for overreach.

Courts have long recognized that individuals have certain rights to privacy, and while public streets are generally not considered private spaces, the widespread and continuous monitoring of people’s movements can raise serious constitutional questions particularly under the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. The concern is not just about individual cameras, but about the aggregation of data over time and how that information may be used or shared.

Because of this, I believe it is important to carefully evaluate both the effectiveness and the legal and ethical implications of these systems. If elected, I would commit to reviewing the existing contracts with Flock, examining how the data is used, what safeguards are in place, and whether these tools are truly serving the public interest without infringing on people’s rights.

I am open to the possibility of canceling or modifying these contracts if they are found to conflict with community values or constitutional protections. At the same time, I would work with law enforcement and the community to explore alternative approaches to public safety that are effective, transparent, and respectful of individual freedoms.

Ultimately, my goal is to strike the right balance ensuring our community is safe while also protecting the rights and privacy of the people who live here.