Tempe Police ends all Flock data sharing to ensure community data privacy

Aug. 11, 2026

"While we had previously restricted data sharing to Arizona law enforcement agencies only, this additional step will further safeguard Tempe's data and ensure we maintain appropriate control over access," said Tempe Police Chief Ken McCoy.

The Tempe Police Department will remain cooperative with other law enforcement agencies throughout the state. Agencies that need information may request it through the appropriate process.

An Automated License Plate Reader is a law enforcement tool that uses cameras to scan vehicle license plates and compare them to law enforcement databases. ALPRs can instantly notify officers when a car is stolen, associated with a missing person or a crime in progress. This can help solve crimes and recover property. More importantly, this tool can keep both our community members and police officers safer by alerting officers to potential danger.

The Tempe Police Department has never used Flock Safety data for any purpose other than law enforcement. The Department has taken comprehensive precautions to prevent misuse.

Every month, Tempe Police audits the searches made using the Flock Safety system. To access the system's data, officers are required to input report numbers. Each entry to the system is reviewed to confirm that all data access was strictly necessary for law enforcement. The most recent audit was conducted on Friday, Aug. 7. No misuse was found in that audit - or in any previous audits.

The Tempe Police Department has also launched a new Transparency Portal. The portal displays live data and usage metrics to show the community how the technology is governed and operated. Giving people access to this information is intended to increase trust in our community.

The City will also go to bid for an Automated License Plate Reader vendor in the near future.

The Request for Proposals (RFP) is intended to help the City find a product that offers the strongest data security and best public safety options. The contract will also include penalties for any misuse of data by the vendor chosen. The RFP, which will include the safeguards and requirements for vendors, will be available at tempe.gov/procurement.