Residents and advocates press council over Flock camera surveillance and data safeguards

A stream of public commenters used the July 30 council meeting to demand more transparency about the city’s contract with Flock cameras and broader surveillance practices.

Speakers — community organizers, neighborhood residents and privacy advocates — said audits and reporting are too infrequent and raised cybersecurity concerns about cloud storage and Bluetooth receivers. “These cameras facilitate mass surveillance,” one speaker said, urging another public forum with Fresno Police Department leadership. Several participants said they felt intimidated at a prior FPD community meeting because of heavy officer presence and asked for another session with fuller community participation.

Councilmembers acknowledged the concerns and said they would consider additional public sessions, audit transparency and procurement oversight. Mayor and staff said they favor careful review but noted the department has cited camera usefulness for specific investigations; opponents urged the council to revisit the contract, audit practices and community oversight before expanding camera deployments.