Barnstable votes to remove Flock cameras despite police objections

5 September 2026. [AI first draft. Verify every fact against the source before publishing.]

The Barnstable town government voted to remove Flock Safety automatic license plate reader cameras from its jurisdiction, proceeding despite opposition from local police [verify: vote count and date of vote]. The police department had raised concerns about the removal [verify: specific objections cited]. Flock Safety operates ALPR cameras that capture and store vehicle license plate data, a technology that has expanded across municipalities in recent years. The decision reflects ongoing debate over surveillance camera networks and data privacy in towns nationwide. Towns considering similar removals or facing pressure over existing Flock contracts can review their own council agendas and public records for camera renewal dates and related votes.

Read the original reporting: Cape Cod Times.