08/21/2026
Statement Regarding the East Bridgewater Police Department's Flock Safety Agreement
The East Bridgewater Police Department has made the decision to discontinue its agreement with Flock Safety and will not move forward with the planned implementation of the department's Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) program. This decision was not made lightly.
Over the past several months, there has been significant national discussion and concern regarding ALPR technology, data retention, data sharing, privacy, security, and the manner in which these systems are being used by law enforcement agencies across the country. We have also seen increasing questions and concerns from members of our own community and commonwealth regarding the use of this technology.
When we originally evaluated the program, we believed ALPR technology could provide an additional investigative tool to help recover stolen vehicles, locate missing or endangered persons, and assist investigators in solving serious crimes. We also developed policies and safeguards intended to govern its use within the East Bridgewater Police Department.
However, as Chief of Police, I have a responsibility to continually evaluate whether technology remains appropriate for our department and our community. That responsibility does not end once a contract has been signed.
After considering recent developments surrounding ALPR technology, concerns regarding data practices and security, and the questions and concerns raised by members of our community, I have determined that continuing with this program is not the right decision for East Bridgewater at this time.
We currently have one Flock camera installed. No additional cameras will be installed, and we will be taking the necessary steps to discontinue the agreement in accordance with its contractual terms and arrange for the removal of the currently installed camera.
I want it to be clear that this decision should not be interpreted as a statement that ALPR technology has no legitimate law enforcement value. It can be a useful investigative tool when properly governed. Rather, this decision reflects our determination that, at this time, the concerns surrounding this particular program and the current circumstances outweigh the benefits we anticipated receiving from it.
Most importantly, I want our residents to know that community trust matters.
I have had the privilege of serving the East Bridgewater community for nearly 30 years as a member of the Police Department and have been a resident of this town for more than 32 years. I have spent the majority of my adult life serving this community, and I understand that the trust placed in the Police Department is earned every day.
As Chief, I will always place the safety, privacy, constitutional rights, and confidence of the people of East Bridgewater at the center of our decisions.
There will be times when new technology provides significant benefits to law enforcement. There will also be times when we determine that the risks, concerns, or lack of public confidence warrant taking a different approach. Responsible leadership means being willing to reassess decisions when circumstances change. That is what we are doing here.
I appreciate the residents who took the time to ask questions, express concerns, and engage in this discussion. While we may not always agree on every issue, I believe that an open and respectful dialogue makes our community stronger.
The East Bridgewater Police Department remains committed to using proven, lawful, and appropriately governed tools to protect our residents and investigate crime. We will continue to evaluate technology and other resources that are best for public safety.
Thank you for your continued trust and support.
Michael Jenkins
Chief of Police
East Bridgewater Police Department
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