In recent weeks, Dayton residents have intensified their calls for the removal of Flock license plate reader cameras installed throughout the city. Concerns have escalated following revelations that data collected by these cameras was shared with various law enforcement agencies, including those involved in immigration enforcement, contrary to city policy.
During a packed city commission meeting, community members expressed their apprehensions. Joseph Abrams questioned the allocation of resources, stating, “Why are we funding militarization of all of our neighborhoods while people are sleeping on the streets, kids can’t have grocery stores or access to medicine?” Similarly, mental health therapist Ri Molar highlighted the psychological impact of constant surveillance, noting that residents feel “afraid to leave their homes” due to being “watched” and “tracked everywhere we go.”
In response to these concerns, the city suspended the automated license plate reader program on May 1, pending an independent review. This decision came after an internal investigation revealed that over 7,100 search requests related to immigration were processed, violating city policy. Mayor Shenise Turner-Sloss acknowledged the breach of trust, stating, “We failed the constituents of this community because we relied our trust in something else and someone else in other systems, and it was not reciprocated.”
Residents are also demanding increased transparency and accountability. Calls have been made for the release of all data logs dating back to 2020, public hearings, community meetings, and an independent investigation into the matter. Some community members have even called for the dismissal of City Manager Shelley Dickstein, citing a perceived lack of responsiveness to community concerns over the years.
As the city moves forward, a town hall meeting focusing on public safety is scheduled for May 30, aiming to address these pressing issues and rebuild trust between the community and city officials.