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Flock Cameras

At a glance

  • What: Flock cameras (Automated License Plate Readers) deployed in Sioux Falls for law enforcement use.
  • Where it stands: Police Chief described implementation and benefits; significant public concerns raised about safety, data storage, wrongful arrests, and possible political involvement.
  • Next: No decision or moratorium scheduled as of October 2026.

Background

Flock Cameras (ALPR - Automated License Plate Readers) are surveillance cameras used by law enforcement to read and record vehicle license plates. Sioux Falls has implemented the technology.

Public concerns

  • Ten citizens testified at September 15, 2026 informational meeting opposing the use of flock cameras.
  • Concerns cited: safety issues, data storage concerns, wrongful arrests potential, and possible political involvement.
  • Additional concerns raised at August 25 joint Minnehaha County meeting: misuse and vulnerabilities.
  • Public comment in October 6 Council meeting raised questions about ability to take video recordings.

Police position

Chief Jon Thum presented at September 15, 2026 informational meeting on public safety update covering ALPR implementation. Statistics presented showed:

  • Number of stolen vehicles before and after ALPR implementation.
  • Benefits for law enforcement.
  • Discussion of overcoming ALPR challenges and concerns in the future.

Sources

Log

2026-09-15 - City Council

General public input touched on flock cameras (along with future Council elections and a possible open meetings violation). No Council action.

2026-09-08 - City Council

During the 2027 City Budget vote, Pankonin moved, seconded by Okuwe, to strike the $120,000 Flock Cameras line from the 2027 police operating budget. It failed 2-6 (Pankonin and Okuwe yes).

2026-10-06 - City Council

Public comment raised concerns about flock cameras' ability to take video recordings, during general public input that also covered data center moratoriums and the Whittier Neighborhood. No council action.

2026-09-15 - City Council Informational Meeting

Chief Jon Thum presented statistics on ALPR implementation and benefits. Ten citizens testified against use of cameras citing safety, data storage, wrongful arrests, and political involvement concerns.

2026-08-25 - Joint Sioux Falls City Council - Minnehaha County Commission Meeting

Public input given on flock camera misuse and vulnerabilities.

2026-07-07 - City Council

General public input raised concerns about safety cameras near the Gemini Data Center, data sharing, consumer privacy laws and the need for a public surveillance policy. No Council action.

2026-05-12 - City Council

General public input included mass surveillance systems (the minutes do not name a specific system), along with other topics. No Council action.