WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — Mayor Doug Diny says he never doubted the Police Department’s use of FLOCK surveillance cameras, but negative headlines about the company led to the end of the city’s partnership.
“[I think] The Wausau Police Department had the best controls and double-checks in place. If someone queries [a plate], the chain of command is notified. Or if there are multiple queries. there is a system to prevent abuse,” said Diny. “But, with technology outpacing policy, these issues weren’t envisioned. Stalking an ex, these things happened, and Wausau adapted very quickly to make sure that didn’t happen here.”
Diny says he doesn’t see how that partnership can be repaired after FLOCK was caught misusing traffic data in other communities. “I don’t see a pathway for them to get back into good graces. Whether the trust in that technology changes over time, we will see, but I think we are going to have a break for ’27 and into ’28. I don’t see an easy path for them.”
The city’s Public Works Department will have all of Wausau’s cameras covered by the middle of next week, and next year’s city budget does not include a scheduled payment to the company. Meaning officers will lose access to the platform before the end of the year.
Officers with the Wausau PD told WSAU news that FLOCK has been a useful tool for them, but they will respect the Council’s decision.
Other topics Diny discussed with WSAU’s Mike Leischner:
Start of video- The end of the FLOCK era
6:45- City Administrator discussion continues
9:45- City credit card investigation
14:45- Getting the street crews winter ready
Comments