“Darth Vader” Uses Dark Side to Mock Controversial Surveillance Cameras: 'The Emperor is a Fan of Flock'

A man impersonating Darth Vader attended a San Diego City Council meeting to sarcastically advocate for Flock police surveillance cameras. He compared the technology to tools the ‘Emperor’ would use to find ‘rebel scum’ and highlighted concerns about tracking children and stalking ex-girlfriends. San Diego Police currently use Flock automated license plate recognition cameras at approximately 500 locations, stating the technology aids in law enforcement by locating vehicles connected to investigations.

• A man dressed as Darth Vader mockingly spoke in favor of Flock police surveillance cameras at a San Diego City Council meeting.
• He used Star Wars references, suggesting the technology would help ‘the Emperor’ find ‘rebel scum’ and children.
• Concerns were raised that Flock cameras track more than just license plates, potentially following children and enabling stalking.
• The San Diego Police Department uses Flock ALPR cameras at around 500 locations for law enforcement purposes.
• Police state the ALPR database is restricted, data is retained for 30 days, and deleted unless part of an active investigation.