New Jersey Protest Group Targets Automated License Plate Readers

A protest group called DeFlock South Jersey has been formed to oppose the use of automated license plate readers in New Jersey. The group held a demonstration on August 22, 2026, at a Home Depot parking lot in Berlin Township, where a Flock Safety camera was the target of their protest.

The protesters, who wore signs and a homemade costume called Flocky, aimed to raise awareness about the issue and educate the public. They argued that these cameras amount to warrantless mass surveillance and violate individuals' right to privacy.

According to Adam Sheridan, one of the group's organizers, 'We're trying to educate the public about the growing mass surveillance in South Jersey and around the country.' The group wants towns to cancel their contracts with Flock Safety and install new cameras, and they also want Trenton to set statewide rules, such as warrant requirements and data retention limits.