Denver says new Axon surveillance system adds privacy safeguards

Denver plans to replace Flock Safety cameras with Axon automated license plate readers and says the new agreement restricts access to city officers, sets a 21-day retention period, and bars use for civil immigration and abortion-related investigations.

Denver is moving to replace its network of Flock Safety cameras with automated license plate readers operated by Axon. City leaders describe the change as an effort to maintain public safety while adding stronger privacy and security controls. Officials say the new system was chosen because it better aligns with Denver's privacy standards. The proposal now goes to the full city council for a vote. Key facts: - The city announced a partnership with Axon to operate automated license plate readers, replacing the current Flock Safety system. - City officials say the Axon agreement prohibits providing Denver data for civil immigration enforcement, abortion-related investigations, or any use not explicitly authorized by the city. - Tim Hoffman, policy director for the City and County of Denver, said access will be limited to Denver officers and that federal agencies, including ICE, will not be able to access the data. - The agreement specifies data will be retained for 21 days before being destroyed and stored in what the city describes as a high-level security system. - Axon already supplies Denver police with body-worn cameras and Tasers, and officials say the license plate reader system will integrate with existing technology. - Some experts, including Dr. Steve Beaty of Metropolitan State University of Denver, raised ongoing concerns about data security and ownership, noting computers have been hacked in the past. Summary: City leaders say the Axon system is intended to strengthen public safety while imposing limits on how data may be accessed and used. Officials highlight short retention periods and explicit bans on certain uses; experts continue to voice concerns about data security and ownership. The council will consider the proposal in a forthcoming vote.