After careful and thoughtful consideration, the UW-Madison Police Department decided not to renew its annual contract with Flock Safety, which ended on June 26, 2026. Flock equipment is currently deactivated and is in the process of being removed.
The decision to transition away from Flock was made so that UWPD can work toward identifying an automated license plate reader (ALPR) vendor that better meets UW-Madison’s public safety needs, while also addressing campus community concerns expressed about contracting with Flock to provide this technology.
UWPD continues to support the use of ALPR technology on campus. The department views ALPR systems as one tool in its overall approach to campus safety; the technology has been proven effective in helping investigators develop critical evidence in criminal investigations.
“While we are not renewing our current agreement with Flock Safety, we are actively exploring alternative ALPR vendors, as this technology has proven to be an effective tool with our layered approach to safety and security in our community,” says Chief Brent Plisch. “We anticipate engaging with our community for input as we seek options for an ALPR vendor.”