Don’t Block FLOCK

Editor;

I was struck by recent comments expressing opposition to FLOCK cameras. Having grown up in so-called “safe” communities all my sheltered life, I understand how easy it is to reach adulthood assuming that level of security is simply the natural state of things. But public safety does not perpetuate itself – it requires public investment, effective policing and appropriate tools.

There are legitimate concerns about privacy and misuse when it comes to the cameras and policing, and those concerns deserve safeguards. The recent case of a San Jose police officer who accessed Flock data and provided information to a relative involved in a domestic violence case is a disturbing example. But the officer was terminated, and San Jose subsequently tightened access to sensitive data while strengthening auditing procedures.

One incident demonstrates why strong access controls, auditing, transparency and meaningful consequences for misuse are essential. It does not demonstrate that the technology itself should be fully abandoned.

Sincerely,

Stephen Rivera/Walnut Creek