Blackout and remove Flock cameras in Lewis County, NY

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The Issue

The installation of Flock Safety cameras in Lewis County, NY, has raised serious privacy concerns among residents and prompted a pushback against unwarranted surveillance. These cameras, initially introduced under the pretext of curbing crime, have become a gateway to extensive monitoring and have the potential to be misused, thereby infringing on the personal freedoms and rights of the citizens of Lewis County.

It is important to understand the scope and purpose of these Flock cameras. Located at the light next to Arby's in lowville in Lewis County, these devices record vehicle license plates and can track vehicles' movements in real time. While ostensibly aimed at aiding law enforcement, the lack of transparency and controls over who can access this data, and how long it is stored, presents a grave threat to civil liberties.

Numerous reports and investigations from privacy advocacy groups indicate that such surveillance technology often falls into misuse, extending beyond crime prevention to monitor and track law-abiding citizens without their consent. Transparency into how the data is used, who accesses it, or how it might profile individuals based solely on vehicle data is alarmingly inadequate. Flock cameras could inadvertently become tools for racial profiling and violate privacy rights without proper oversight.

Moreover, studies, like those conducted by the Electronic Frontier Foundation, highlight that the presence of such surveillance technology does not necessarily lead to decreased crime rates. Instead, they often instill a sense of anxiety and mistrust within communities, deterring people from enjoying public spaces freely and stifling community life.

The solution is clear and actionable: Lewis County must immediately halt the operation of Flock Safety cameras and ensure their removal. By prioritizing the privacy and freedoms of its residents, the county can foster a community grounded in trust, free from the constant fear of being watched.

Sign this petition today to stand against unwarranted surveillance and advocate for the respect of our privacy rights. Your support is crucial in ensuring that Lewis County remains a safe, trustful community where individual freedoms are protected.

The Decision Makers

Kathy Hochul
New York Governor
Antonio Delgado
New York Lieutenant Governor
Thomas DiNapoli
New York Comptroller

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