Amid rising concerns over privacy and data sharing, Asheville could soon join other communities in severing ties with Flock, a company providing automated license plate readers. Hillsborough and Pittsboro are among the towns that have already canceled their contracts with the Atlanta-based firm.
Asheville City Council is set to vote on a resolution that would prematurely end the police department’s agreement with Flock and lead to the removal of 11 automated license plate readers. However, the Asheville Police Department (APD) and several council members are considering alternative technologies if the Flock contract is terminated.
The resolution addresses growing public concern regarding Flock’s operational practices. It aims to restrict city staff from utilizing Flock’s data post-contract termination. Currently, Flock cameras capture vehicle details, including license plates, and upload this data to a cloud-based system that is searchable. APD has deployed 86 such cameras throughout Buncombe County, with 11 specifically used by Asheville police. The resolution does not affect cameras operated by other entities.
Asheville’s $72,000 contract with Flock began in 2025 and was initially set to conclude in January 2027. The technology has been part of a national database utilized by law enforcement and, in some cases, by Immigration and Customs Enforcement to monitor civilian movements. A 404 Media investigation revealed instances where officers misused the technology for unauthorized surveillance.
Interim Police Chief Jackie Stepp defended the use of Flock’s technology in an August 14 memo to the council, highlighting its role in solving various crimes, such as a jewelry heist, a hit-and-run incident, and a shooting in Maple Crest. The technology was also instrumental in identifying suspects involved in a paintball assault. Stepp noted efforts to bolster safeguards, including limiting personnel authorized to access data and enhancing audit processes.
Despite these defenses, council members expressed concerns during a recent briefing, with some advocating for contract termination. Mayor Esther Manheimer remarked, “It is really confusing. It’s been a lot to learn for us…there are some legitimate concerns around Flock to the degree that I think it’s time that we terminate the contract and regroup and move in a different direction.”
Council member Kim Roney, a vocal critic of police surveillance, described the contract’s cancellation as “an important first step” and suggested reassessing the council’s decision to establish a real-time intelligence center. Roney also warned about potential constitutional rights issues should the APD switch to Axon for automated license plate readers.
Most council members, except Roney, showed limited interest in reevaluating other surveillance tools. They indicated openness to replacing Flock’s technology with another system. Stepp mentioned in the memo that APD plans to implement Axon’s automated license plate readers.
While acknowledging Flock’s shortcomings, council member Bo Hess expressed support for APD’s collaboration with Axon, known for providing body and dashboard cameras and drone technology. Hess emphasized the role of video evidence in maintaining accountability, stating, “It’s what holds the public accountable and it holds officers accountable for God forbid they go rogue.”
Council members Sage Turner and Maggie Ullman also voiced their support for body and dashboard camera usage.
