Americans Are Smashing Flock Cameras. The Surveillance State Has a Sabotage Problem.

A wave of physical sabotage is hitting Flock Safety's AI-powered license plate reader network across the United States. At least 25 cameras have been destroyed in five states since April 2025, with one Virginia man facing 25 criminal charges for systematically dismantling 13 cameras. The backlash stems from documented evidence that local police have been running ICE immigration searches through Flock's network — contradicting the company's claims of no ICE involvement — and from city councils repeatedly ignoring overwhelming public opposition to the cameras. Cities like Louisville are now suing to keep camera locations secret to prevent further vandalism, while 46 cities have formally rejected Flock contracts. The trend shows no signs of stopping as ICE access continues and public trust erodes.