Denver will stop using its automatic license plate reader cameras. City council members unanimously rejected a contract extension for the technology Monday night.
The decision followed concerns raised about data security and the potential for immigration enforcement agencies to access information. The cameras are operated by Flock Safety.
The proposed $666,000 extension would have continued the program for two years. It involved 111 cameras placed at approximately 70 locations across Denver.
The camera system was initially implemented last year to address rising car thefts in the city. Authorities reported a 40% decrease in car thefts since the pilot began and the cameras helped police solve a jewelry heist in April.
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston's office asked the city council to vote against the extension. The office stated that while the cameras contributed to a reduction in crime, community worries about privacy and security warranted consideration.
The mayor's office acknowledged new community concerns surrounding the technology had emerged since the pilot started.
Council members expressed specific concerns about potential data access by U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, known as ICE. Flock camera data is available to more than 80 law enforcement agencies, including some that work with ICE.
Council member Sarah Parady pointed out that while the Denver Police Department does not work with ICE, other departments, like the El Paso County Sheriff's office, are not bound by sanctuary city policies and cooperate with federal enforcement. Parady argued that such surveillance technology could be used for "ill intent" by the federal government.
Council member Chris Hines echoed these concerns, stating he wanted more information on how the data is shared, who can access it, and how it is protected. Hines referenced fear among immigrant communities regarding the technology.
The city will not renew the contract proposal with Flock Safety, ending the pilot program's extended use. The mayor's office intends to form a task force to examine technology, security, implementation, and address privacy issues.
"Public safety must never come at the cost of civil liberties," Hines said.
