Remove Flock Safety from Baker County, Florida

Victory

This petition made change with 283 supporters!

The Issue

In recent years, the residents of Baker County, Florida have been subject to unwarranted surveillance through the use of Flock Safety’s technology without our consent. This implementation was carried out by the Baker County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) without any dialogue or consultation with us, the constituents. This is a clear infringement upon our Fourth Amendment rights, which protect us against unreasonable searches and seizures.

As residents with a right to privacy, we should have a say in the surveillance technologies used in our community. BCSO may argue that data isn’t being shared, but evidence suggests they are already engaging with multiple data-sharing networks. Concerns are being dismissed with statements like "you have a phone so why are you complaining?" Owning a phone and choosing to download protective applications like VPNs or upgrading operational security is a choice, but the exploitation of data by a private company without our consent isn't. Flock Safety collects information through automatic license plate readers and other tools, and sells this data to third parties, further compromising our privacy.

Data privacy is not just a personal concern but a community issue, impacting not only individuals but also families and local businesses. The covert nature of this program runs contrary to the values of transparency and trust that should exist between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Without proper checks in place, this kind of technology turns Baker County into a surveillance state, where every movement is monitored and recorded without just cause or informed public consent.

By signing this petition, you will bring light to this infringement on our rights and help us advocate for the removal of Flock Safety from Baker County. Stand with us in demanding transparency from our local law enforcement agencies and in upholding the constitutional rights of privacy and freedom from unwarranted surveillance. It’s time for change; time to take back control of our privacy and ensure that any technology used in our community is balanced with the rights and needs of all citizens. Please sign and support us in our fight to safeguard our freedoms.

The Decision Makers

Scotty Rhoden
Baker County Sheriff
Responded
As Sheriff of Baker County, I have a responsibility to listen to the concerns of the citizens I serve and to ensure that the tools and technology used by the Baker County Sheriff’s Office are used in a manner that maintains the confidence and trust of our community. License Plate Reader (LPR) technology has been a very valuable law enforcement tool for the Baker County Sheriff’s Office. This technology has assisted our deputies and investigators in locating wanted persons, identifying vehicles associated with criminal activity, recovering stolen property, and providing investigative leads that have helped us solve cases and protect our citizens. However, I also recognize the concerns that have been expressed regarding the use of this technology. With the decision made at the state level concerning LPR systems and the public concerns surrounding their use, I have determined that the Baker County Sheriff’s Office will discontinue the use of LPR technology at this time. While technology can provide law enforcement with valuable resources, maintaining the trust of the people we serve is equally important. The Baker County Sheriff’s Office will continue to evaluate the tools we use and ensure that our law enforcement practices remain consistent with the law, our responsibilities as public servants, and the expectations of our community. I want the citizens of Baker County to know that this decision does not change our commitment to public safety. As your Sheriff, I remain committed to doing what is necessary to keep Baker County safe while protecting the rights, privacy, and trust of our citizens. The men and women of the Baker County Sheriff’s Office will continue to use every lawful and appropriate resource available to prevent crime, apprehend offenders, solve cases, and protect our families and our community. Sheriff Scotty Rhoden Baker County Sheriff’s Office [Note: The Change.org Civic Engagement Team reaches out to decision makers to let them know about petitions in their community and to help facilitate engagement with supporters. The above was an email response we received regarding this petition.]
Baker County Commission
2 Members
Mark Hartley
Baker County Commission - District 5
James Bennett
Baker County Commission - District 4
James Croft
James Croft
Baker County Commission
Cathy Rhoden
Cathy Rhoden
Baker County Commission

Supporter Voices

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