Fort Wayne Police Department statement on the Fort Wayne City Council vote not to approve a proposed contract with Flock Safety on August 25, 2026.
Fort Wayne Police Department news release:
Following tonight’s vote, the Fort Wayne Police Department respects the decision of the Fort Wayne City Council regarding the proposed Flock Safety contract.
License Plate Reader technology has proven to be a valuable investigative resource for our officers and detectives, and the department continues to believe it can be used responsibly while maintaining appropriate safeguards for privacy, accountability, and oversight.
One of the first actions Chief Paul Smith took after being appointed Chief was to brief City Council on the department’s use of the Flock LPR system and provide information about how the technology is used. FWPD has consistently supported transparency and appropriate oversight of this technology.
The Fort Wayne Police Department will also continue to support reasonable efforts to establish legislation governing how License Plate Reader technology is used. We believe effective public-safety tools and appropriate safeguards can coexist, and we remain committed to working with City Council on clear standards that protect legitimate privacy interests while preserving the investigative value of LPR technology.
FWPD will evaluate the impact of tonight’s decision and determine the appropriate path forward. We appreciate the time City Council members and members of the community have devoted to this discussion and remain committed to transparency regarding the department’s use of this technology.
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