Akron blocks nationwide searches of Flock network

Akron has opted its Flock license-plate camera network out of nationwide searches, restricting direct access by out-of-state law enforcement amid concerns about privacy, immigration enforcement and reproductive rights. The city’s audit found that most identifiable searches by outside agencies were broad searches across Flock networks rather than requests tied to specific criminal investigations in Akron; a local investigation also reported tens of millions of outside searches, including thousands explicitly connected to immigration enforcement. Akron police can continue using the system, Ohio agencies retain access through statewide searches, and outside agencies with a specific investigative need may ask Akron police for help. The move builds on restrictions adopted in May that disabled certain immigration- and reproductive-health-related search categories, while the city continues reviewing the system’s use.