The growing backlash over AI-powered Flock surveillance cameras has taken another turn in the Carolinas. Police say several cameras were vandalized in South Carolina this week.
The Irmo Police Department confirmed the cameras were vandalized near Friarsgate Boulevard and Irmo Drive. Police have not identified any suspects or released details about the damage.
The vandalism comes weeks after Irmo Town Council approved a $403,000 contract to add 22 Flock cameras. The expansion moved forward despite public opposition and questions surrounding transparency.
Meanwhile, Flock Safety announced several changes Thursday following months of national scrutiny. They include shorter default data-retention periods and additional safeguards intended to prevent misuse.
The incident also follows several cases involving alleged Flock abuse across the Carolinas.
A CMPD officer was arrested July 29 after allegedly accessing Flock during a drug investigation. Authorities say he used the system to determine whether someone buying drugs from his friend was undercover.
In South Carolina, Greer fired two officers in June following violations involving the system. Pageland also fired two law enforcement employees this summer over alleged misuse.
CMPD does not operate its own Flock cameras. However, Charlotte officers can access cameras belonging to other agencies through information-sharing agreements.
The vandalism and recent misuse cases are now adding new scrutiny to the rapidly expanding surveillance network across the Carolinas.
