DeFlock DC is a grassroots effort dedicated to terminating all contracts between the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) of the District of Columbia and Flock Safety, a manufacturer of surveillance hardware and software.

What is Flock?

While often described as an ALPR (Automatic License Plate Reader) service, the Flock network is closer to an AI-powered surveillance apparatus; the technology is capable of building a profile of your vehicle, taking into account make, model, color, bumper stickers, dents, and more. Flock Safety provides this technology to police departments across the country, claiming to have cameras in over 5000 municipalities in 49 states across the U.S.

How does MPD use Flock Safety?

MPD has spent millions of taxpayer dollars to install more than 65 Flock cameras throughout the district, with more on the way.

Flock Safety's "Hot List" feature, marketed for use in tracking fugitives, missing persons, and stolen vehicles, sends realtime alerts to law enforcement when a vehicle of interest is spotted. MPD's use of this technology means your movements are being logged, at all times and without a warrant, whether you are suspected of a crime or not. This information is just one bad actor away from being misused, one data leak away from becoming public.

We can stop this, but we need your help.

The movement against Flock surveillance is gaining steam.The municipalities of Austin (TX), Evanston (IL), and Ithaca (NY) have terminated their contracts with Flock Safety due to public pressure. Over 100 communities have resistance movements.

We are just getting started here in D.C. Please join our e-newsletter to learn about upcoming events, public hearings where you can voice your opposition to this technology, and other opportunities to get involved.