Former Pentagon AI Policy Director Mark Beall warned that expanding artificial intelligence surveillance tools, like Flock cameras, could turn American communities into a "China-like surveillance state" unless guardrails are enforced.Speaking on "Saturday in America," Beall argued that while this technology can have vital law enforcement benefits, clear rules and judicial oversight are necessary to protect the rights of Americans at home."We have to be careful that we don't go too far to the other direction and create a China-like surveillance state, which is literally what AI capabilities will ultimately enable and are enabling right now," Beall told Fox News.TEENS ACCUSED OF DESTROYING FLOCK CAMERA UNTIL BATTERY EXPLODED, IGNITING FIRE NEAR HOMES: REPORTMembers of the Muslim Justice League and other activists march toward Flock Safety offices during a protest on Aug.19, 2026, in Boston, Mass.
The demonstration came amid scrutiny of the company's license plate camera technology and its use by law enforcement.(Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)From destroyed camera poles to viral signs blocking surveillance lenses, some communities are pushing back against neighborhood surveillance cameras.
Flock cameras are automated license plate readers used by law enforcement to record vehicle data that can aid criminal investigations.People in communities with the cameras have raised concerns about privacy and potential misuse by law enforcement.Beall acknowledged that the technology can benefit law enforcement but said people’s privacy concerns are also valid.
He urged a compromise and called for guardrails on how the cameras can be used, including strict rules and court oversight to prevent officers from abusing the technology for personal reasons.FLOCK SAFETY CAMERAS NEED CONSTITUTIONAL GUARDRAILS BEFORE FURTHER DEPLOYMENT, TENNESSEE MAYOR ARGUES"It’s tough to bring the message of compromise to the American people, especially when it comes to our constituti...