SOUTH TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — The South Tucson City Council voted 5-2 to cancel flock camera contracts Tuesday evening.
Flock cameras are automated license plate readers and surveillance devices law enforcement uses to help solve and prevent crimes or to find missing persons. They are mounted on light poles and other fixtures.
In mid-January, I met with Mayor Roxanna Valenzuela to discuss how South Tucson was preparing for increased ICE activity. At the time, she said there were discussions among Mayor and Council to cancel the contracts.
"We are very united in South Tucson and we will continue to fight for our people," Mayor Valenzuela said.
Canceling the contracts was one way Mayor Valenzuela said the city could help protect its people. She added that the discussion had previously stirred debate over security concerns.
I reached out to South Tucson police about this decision. Chief Danny Denogean stated in part:
"The South Tucson Police Department is disappointed and disagrees with the council’s decision; however, we will abide and will continue to conduct investigations to the best of our ability.
It should be noted that, to date, the camera system has contributed to the successful resolution of several crimes, and we have not received any reports of negative impacts resulting from its use in South Tucson. While multiple different agencies and municipalities are moving forward to provide an added layer of service to their community this is a step backward in ours."
During Tuesday's meeting, Mayor and Council also unanimously passed a resolution opposing an ICE detention center in Marana.
——
Jacqueline Aguilar is a multimedia journalist at KGUN 9. Born and raised in Yuma, AZ., she is no stranger to the unforgiving Arizona heat. Now this U of A wildcat is excited to be back in Tucson and is looking forward to involving herself in the community. Share your story ideas with Jacqueline by emailing jacqueline.aguilar@kgun9.com or connecting on Facebook, Instagram or X.
_______________________________________________________________
Want to discuss this story and keep up with what’s happening in South Tucson and the Southside? Click here to check out and join our new Facebook group to share stories, ask questions, and connect with neighbors.
Also, click here to check out our South Tucson and Southside news playlist at YouTube.
