Franklin Officials Defend Flock Cameras Against Backlash - 8/11/2026

This New Brunswick Today meeting on August 11, 2026, focused on the Franklin Township Police Department's use of Flock's automated license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras. Public Safety Director Lloyd Fredericks and a Flock representative presented the technology's capabilities, emphasizing its use solely for criminal investigations, data privacy protections, and audit procedures. The system, funded by a $339,000 state grant, includes 22 cameras and retains data for three years as per New Jersey law. The presentation addressed concerns about data misuse, false positives, and privacy, noting quarterly and random monthly audits. During the public session, residents raised numerous questions and objections regarding privacy, data ownership, potential misuse, contract terms granting Flock control over data access, and the lack of prior public notification. Several speakers urged for greater transparency, citizen oversight, and reconsideration of the contract. The discussion also touched on the potential financial and political liabilities of maintaining the system after the grant period ends. No formal votes or motions were recorded in the transcript, but the meeting highlighted significant community debate over the procurement and use of ALPR technology in Franklin Township.