FORT WAYNE, IN – Americans for Prosperity-Indiana (AFP-IN) today voiced opposition to funding for Flock automated license plate reader cameras ahead of a scheduled Fort Wayne City Council vote on July 14.
AFP-IN Grassroots Engagement Director Tyler Turnwald issued the following statement:
“Fort Wayne residents deserve a full and transparent conversation before government expands its ability to monitor and track people’s movements.
“Automated license plate reader systems collect information on everyone who passes by, not just individuals suspected of wrongdoing. While public safety is an important priority, communities should be cautious about investing taxpayer dollars in technology that enables broad surveillance of law-abiding citizens.
“As council members continue evaluating this proposal, we encourage them to carefully consider the long-term implications for privacy, civil liberties, and government accountability. Decisions involving surveillance technology deserve transparency, public input, and meaningful oversight.
“AFP-Indiana believes public safety and individual liberty can coexist. We urge local leaders to reject funding for this expansion and pursue solutions that protect both.”
AFP-IN has consistently raised concerns about the expansion of automated license plate reader systems and the potential for government overreach, data misuse, and the collection of sensitive information on law-abiding citizens.
The Fort Wayne City Council is expected to consider funding for the Flock camera contract when it returns for a vote on July 14.