HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — A Huntington resident has filed a lawsuit challenging the city’s approval of a police surveillance contract with Flock Safety, arguing the technology is invasive and violates constitutional privacy protections.
The plan, approved earlier this year, would equip Huntington law enforcement with a network of license plate readers, live‑feed cameras, and audio‑recording devices placed throughout the city. Critics say the system would create a sweeping record of residents’ movements and activities.
Aubrey Sparks, legal director for the ACLU of West Virginia, said Flock’s technology goes far beyond traditional license plate readers.
“Having these live camera feeds where they can check in at any time, and having audio recorders capturing public spaces without people’s knowledge, is a major escalation,” Sparks said.
Documents released by the city show Flock representatives met with small groups of council members to avoid forming a quorum — a move Sparks said prevented the public from being notified or allowed to comment.
The lawsuit argues Huntington violated its own ordinance, which prohibits using public property for commercial benefit without required procedures such as public hearings, notice, and a formal council vote.
Flock Safety has faced controversy nationwide. Cities including Los Angeles have allowed contracts to expire, while several smaller municipalities have banned the technology. Recent reporting by The Washington Post documented more than a dozen cases where officers misused Flock systems to stalk partners, ex‑partners, or strangers.
Supporters of the technology say Flock cameras help solve crimes and improve public safety.
The lawsuit is pending in state court.
