Middletown Mayor Rejects Flock Safety Contract After Residents Raise Privacy Concerns

MIDDLETOWN, CT — Middletown Mayor Eugene Nocera said he will not sign a proposed contract with Flock Safety following a lengthy public hearing in which residents raised concerns about privacy, surveillance and civil liberties.

Nocera announced the decision in a statement after the last Common Council meeting, saying 20 to 30 residents spoke about the proposed contract.

"The testimony highlighted significant concerns about privacy, public trust, and the possibility that surveillance footage ... could, if improperly accessed or misused, be exploited in ways that compromise the privacy of our residents," Nocera said.

Flock Safety provides technology used by law enforcement agencies for public safety and investigative purposes. The proposed agreement drew scrutiny over the potential use and access of surveillance footage, including images captured by drones or first responders, according to Nocera.

Nocera said the city has a responsibility to provide public safety while also protecting residents' privacy and civil liberties.

"Public trust is fundamental to effective government," Nocera said.

Rather than proceed with the contract, Nocera said the city will continue exploring alternative technologies that could allow Middletown to use its drone program for public safety purposes without undermining residents' confidence in city government.

Nocera thanked residents who participated in the public hearing, as well as the Middletown Police Department and city staff for their work during the process.

"Their input has been invaluable in reaching this decision," he said.