Flock Safety is facing a class action lawsuit filed by an Oakland-based firm, alleging its license plate reader cameras violate California privacy laws. Attorney David Berger of Gibbs Mura claims the company improperly shared data on California drivers with out-of-state law enforcement and federal agencies. The scope is significant: more than 1.6 million searches were conducted by outside agencies in the San Francisco Police Department’s database over a seven-month period, with over one million additional searches tied to Los Altos.
Some police departments have already taken action. Mountain View terminated its contract after identifying violations, while an audit in El Cerrito found federal agencies accessed the system even after safeguards were expected to prevent it. Police Chief Paul Keith noted the incidents were surprising but said Flock has since implemented stronger protections, including system disclaimers restricting access to California agencies.
Despite these changes, the lawsuit seeks compensation for millions of California residents and calls for broader reforms. Other cities, including San Jose, are considering stricter controls like limiting data retention and requiring more documentation from outside agencies. Flock Safety maintains it takes privacy and legal compliance seriously and plans to vigorously defend itself against the claims.
This blog is intended to provide information to the general public and to practitioners about developments that may impact Oregon class actions.
