New data compiled by the anti-surveillance advocacy group Secure Justice reveals a rapid acceleration in American localities dropping Flock Safety systems. From Lansing, Michigan, to Pflugerville, Texas, communities are ending their relationships with the company, citing concerns over out-of-control surveillance, unwanted data sharing, high costs, and reports of police abusing the tool.
A Parabolic Rise in Cancellations
According to Secure Justice, 214 cities and counties have dropped Flock since 2021. However, August 2026 marked a turning point, with 93 jurisdictions terminating their contracts in a single month—a fourfold increase compared to the previous month. Brian Hofer, executive director of Secure Justice, described the trend as going "parabolic," noting that if this momentum continues for another year, the financial implications for the company will be significant.
Political Scrutiny and Abuse Incidents
The scrutiny has become bipartisan. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) announced an investigation into Flock Safety’s collection and retention of data generated by its AI cameras. Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis called the cameras "out of control" following the arrest of two police officers for misusing the system, including one instance of tracking an ex-girlfriend. Other reported incidents include a Texas Sheriff’s Office using the system to search for a woman who had sought an abortion.
Flock’s Defensive Measures
Despite the backlash, Flock Safety maintains that new city partnerships have outpaced nonrenewals by a 10-to-1 ratio in 2026, claiming its products are trusted by over 5,000 communities. In an attempt to address privacy concerns, the company reduced its default data retention period from 30 days to seven and updated its terms of use to expressly prohibit using the services to harass, stalk, or violate the legal rights of others.
