Missouri governor orders guardrails on Flock cameras and ALPRs

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has issued an executive order imposing regulations on the use of automated license plate readers, such as Flock cameras. The order aims to safeguard residents' constitutional rights and prevent the misuse of these surveillance tools. Kehoe highlighted the potential privacy concerns arising from the indefinite storage and collection of location data on innocent citizens.

The executive order mandates the Missouri Department of Public Safety to establish safeguards for government agencies and law enforcement departments utilizing the automatic license plate readers. Violations will result in immediate criminal referral, disciplinary actions, and a report to the department for further disciplinary measures or revocation of officers' licenses.

Kehoe urged local agencies to voluntarily adhere to these practices under the current laws and contracts, considering the framework a temporary solution until state lawmakers address the issue. Public Safety Director Mark James acknowledged the usefulness of the cameras for law enforcement but emphasized the need for regulations.

Flock Safety cameras have been a subject of controversy in recent months, with both law enforcement and privacy advocates debating their benefits and drawbacks. The company operates over 120,000 cameras nationwide, assisting police departments in solving crimes, while critics argue that the cameras infringe on privacy rights and collect data from individuals who have not been charged with a crime.

Immigration rights advocates have also expressed concerns over the cameras. St. Charles County Police banned Flock cameras last month following allegations of a former employee misusing system data, while a Brentwood police officer faced accusations of stalking his ex-wife, and St. Louis County police determined that the officer's actions, though policy violations, did not constitute illegal behavior.

Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department has also announced its decision to discontinue the use of Flock cameras.