DeFlock America Tops 790,000 Facebook Members Amid Flock Camera Backlash
DeFlock America’s Facebook group has attracted more than 790,000 members, according to a September 21 report by The Wheaton Record, highlighting opposition to Flock Safety’s surveillance cameras.
Claims that membership has now exceeded 800,000 could not be independently confirmed for this report.
The debate also involves earlier remarks by Flock Safety CEO Garrett Langley, who described DeFlock as a “terroristic organization” before apologizing in July.
Flock CEO apologized for the remark
Langley’s comments referred to DeFlock, the advocacy project that maps license plate readers and helps communities organize against their deployment.
In an interview published by Forbes on July 17, 2026, he acknowledged that the characterization was wrong.
“My comments were a mistake and I apologize,” Langley said.
He also acknowledged that critics had legitimate concerns and said documenting camera locations was acceptable provided no crime was committed.
Why Flock cameras face opposition
Critics argue that networks of automated license plate readers allow authorities to reconstruct ordinary people’s movements, raising questions about privacy, access to data and oversight.
Supporters say the technology helps investigators identify vehicles connected to crimes and locate missing people.
The opposition extends beyond online discussions. Local groups have encouraged residents to attend council meetings, contact elected officials and challenge municipal camera contracts.
In Illinois, DeFlock DuPage organizer Anthony Spears told The Wheaton Record that local campaigns offered residents a way to influence decisions about surveillance in their communities.
