Denver City Council rejects $666,000 extension for license plate readers over data privacy concerns

The Denver City Council unanimously voted against renewing its contract with Flock Group Inc. for more than 100 automated license plate recognition cameras, despite police citing the technology's significant role in reducing auto thefts and aiding criminal investigations. Concerns over mass surveillance, data security, and potential misuse by law enforcement or federal agencies, including ICE, were central to the council's decision. While the cameras contributed to hundreds of arrests, vehicle recoveries, and a reported 40% drop in auto theft, critics—including councilmembers and the ACLU—argued the risks to civil liberties and privacy outweighed these benefits. Mayor Mike Johnston's office, acknowledging growing public concern, requested the council pause the contract to allow for more community input and a potential task force to address issues before reconsidering future surveillance measures. The current pilot program will continue until existing funds run out, but no extension or expansion will occur for now. The decision reflects heightened debate about balancing effective crime-fighting tools with protecting residents from potential government overreach and mass data collection.