Posts

Flock Safety's Surveillance Practices: A Critical Examination

Jul

2025

Flock Safety's Surveillance Practices: A Critical Examination

Flock Safety, a company specializing in automated license plate readers (ALPRs), faces increasing scrutiny over its surveillance practices and the implications for privacy and civil liberties. Recent statements from the company reveal a troubling pattern of downplaying the harms associated with its technology while shifting blame to users amidst allegations of misuse. This summary explores the key issues surrounding Flock Safety's operations, the implications for privacy rights, and the broader context of surveillance in law enforcement.

3 min read

Chicago Suburbs Abandon Red-Light Cameras

Jul

2025

Red Light Cameras

Chicago Suburbs Abandon Red-Light Cameras

In a growing trend across Illinois, several suburbs are discontinuing their red-light camera programs, citing declining revenue and questionable safety benefits. These cameras have generated over $1.5 billion in fines since their introduction in 2008, yet many communities have found them ineffective in improving road safety.

3 min read

July 4 Celebrations and Fines in California

Jul

2025

Drones

July 4 Celebrations and Fines in California

As Americans celebrated Independence Day, many faced the risk of hefty fines for using illegal fireworks, with penalties reaching up to $100,000. Drones deployed by law enforcement captured evidence of violations, leading to citations mailed to property owners after the holiday weekend.

4 min read

Jul

2025

Hertz's AI Scanner Damage Charges

Hertz has implemented AI-powered scanners at select U.S. airports to inspect rental vehicles for damage, leading to significant charges for customers. One user reported being billed $440 for a minor scuff, raising concerns about the transparency and accessibility of the claims process.

4 min read

AI-Enabled Trash Trucks Will Scan Your Trash to Scold You About Recycling

Jul

2025

Big Brother

AI-Enabled Trash Trucks Will Scan Your Trash to Scold You About Recycling

The city of Centerville, Ohio, has introduced AI-enabled trash trucks that scan residents' waste to monitor recycling practices. These trucks aim to reduce contamination in recycling bins and educate the public on proper waste disposal. However, the initiative raises privacy concerns as personal data tied to residents' trash is collected and reported.

4 min read

Gurnee's Red-Light Camera Program Termination

Jul

2025

Red Light Cameras

Gurnee's Red-Light Camera Program Termination

The Village of Gurnee, Illinois, has officially ended its red-light photo enforcement program after 16 years of operation. This decision marks a significant shift in the local approach to traffic safety and enforcement, raising questions about the future of traffic management in the area.

3 min read

Kansas Supreme Court Rules License Plate Frames Cannot Justify Traffic Stops

Jul

2025

License Plates

Kansas Supreme Court Rules License Plate Frames Cannot Justify Traffic Stops

The Kansas Supreme Court has ruled that police cannot pull over drivers solely for having license plate frames that obscure part of the plate. This decision stems from the case of State vs. Beck, where the court clarified the interpretation of license plate display laws, emphasizing that obscuring the state name does not constitute a violation if the essential information on the plate remains visible.

4 min read

Opposition to License Plate Recognition Cameras in Coralville

Jul

2025

License Plate Readers

Opposition to License Plate Recognition Cameras in Coralville

In Coralville, Iowa, the proposed implementation of license plate recognition cameras has sparked significant public debate. While the Coralville police argue that these cameras enhance crime-solving capabilities, many residents express concerns about privacy and potential overreach in surveillance.

3 min read

License Plate Mix-Up Leads to $2K in Unpaid Tolls for Wisconsin Woman

Jul

2025

Tolls

License Plate Mix-Up Leads to $2K in Unpaid Tolls for Wisconsin Woman

A Wisconsin woman recently faced an unexpected financial burden of nearly $2,000 due to a license plate mix-up. This incident highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls of vehicle registration systems, as well as the challenges consumers face in correcting administrative errors.

3 min read