BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN)......The controversial Flock Camera street side surveillance system that's used by many municipalities but heavily criticized by many groups will not be used in the City of Buffalo.
Both Buffalo Police Commissioner Erika Shields and Mayor Sean Ryan say no Flock Cameras are in the city - that have been installed by the Buffalo Police Department.
And, both Shields and Ryan are adamant that no Flock Cameras will be installed in Buffalo.
"I'm not interested in buying Flock Cameras at this time," Ryan said.
The issue of Flock Cameras continues to be a controversial one often times pitting police agencies against such groups as the American Civil Liberties Union.
Police say the cameras can provide information that aids with investigations - mostly using street views and license plate information.
But, critics say the decade-old system created by Atlanta-based Flock Group Inc. comes way too close "Big Brother" and tramples on human rights.
"It is problematic for the police community," Shields said.
While Buffalo has said no to Flock Cameras, Niagara County has 43 installed - although one along Niagara Falls Boulevard in the City of North Tonawanda is being removed at the request of the North Tonawanda City Council.
Suburban towns like Cheektowaga and Amherst have Flock Cameras installed including 29 at various Cheektowaga locations.
"The Buffalo Police Department does not have and will not use Flock Cameras," Shields said.
Ryan, Shields say Buffalo will not use Flock Cameras
Ryan, Shields say Buffalo will not use Flock Cameras
