"A committee of Oakland City Council members rejected the deal last month after hundreds spoke out against the software company Flock Safety, which has fended off accusations that its camera data could be used for immigration enforcement in the sanctuary city. But a separate committee voted last week to bypass the city's ordinary legislative process and usher the deal to a final vote a decision that followed robust lobbying efforts by Flock officials and the Oakland Police Department."
"Flock Safety already has 300 cameras installed along the city's busiest thoroughfares and nearby East Bay state highways, but until now those had been operated by California Highway Patrol, by order of Gov. Gavin Newsom. If the council rejects the contract or opts to find another vendor, those cameras would likely be removed. Police leaders maintain the cameras are essential for catching criminal suspects, filling gaps in local law enforcement as OPD's staffing steadily declines."
Flock Safety remains a candidate for a new $2 million Oakland contract despite public concern that captured license-plate information could reach federal immigration authorities. One council committee previously rejected the deal after hundreds opposed the company, while another committee later advanced the contract to a final vote following lobbying by Flock and the Oakland Police Department. About 300 cameras are already installed and were operated by the California Highway Patrol under the governor's order; removal is likely if the council rejects the vendor. Police say cameras fill enforcement gaps as Oakland Police staffing declines, prompting resident anger and at least one council dissent.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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