MIDDLETOWN, CT — Middletown Mayor Gene Nocera said he would not move forward with signing a $50,000 contract with Flock Safety cameras following a recent public hearing in which around 30 residents expressed concerns about the proposal.
"After a lengthy public hearing at our common council meeting this past Monday night, in which 20 to 30 residents expressed their concerns regarding the proposed Flock Safety contract, I believe the prudent course is to carefully reflect on the issues that were raised," Nocera wrote in a message to residents. "The testimony highlighted significant concerns about privacy, public trust, and the possibility that surveillance footage—including images captured by drones or first responders could, if improperly accessed or misused, be exploited in ways that compromise the privacy of our residents."
Read more from Nocera's statement below:
Public trust is fundamental to effective government. While our responsibility is to provide the highest level of public safety possible, we must also ensure that any technology we adopt protects the privacy and civil liberties of the people we serve.
For that reason, I have decided not to move forward signing the Flock Safety contract. Instead, we will continue to explore alternative technologies that will allow us to utilize our drone program in ways that enhance public safety while maintaining the confidence and trust of our community.
I appreciate the thoughtful participation of our residents and the diligent work of our Police Department and staff throughout this process. Their input has been invaluable in reaching this decision.
Watch the Common Council meeting here.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Middletown Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.