Darth Vader demands more Flock surveillance cameras in San Diego to hunt 'rebel scum'

A figure dressed as Darth Vader appeared before the San Diego City Council to advocate for the expanded use of Flock's AI-powered surveillance cameras, as reported by 404 Media. The speech, delivered in character as the iconic Star Wars villain, was a pointed satire of the council's ongoing support for the technology.

"The Emperor is a fan of Flock, and we must continue utilizing Flock technologies so that we can follow and surveil the rebel scum as they move from playground to playground, from playground to pool, from pool to gymnasium," the speaker declared, mimicking Vader's mechanical breathing and cadence. He argued that the cameras are not just tracking license plates but also monitoring children in public spaces.

"I need this so I can stalk my ex-girlfriend," the speaker continued, directly addressing concerns about privacy and potential abuse. "How will the people trust this city council when this city council continues to vote for surveillance technology that imprisons them?" He implored the council to "work on your Jedi mind tricks" and approve the technology, claiming it would help find Luke Skywalker and the rebel base on Hoth.

The performance was a protest against the expansion of Flock's license plate reader network, which is already deployed by the San Diego Police Department. Critics of the system argue that it creates a pervasive surveillance infrastructure vulnerable to misuse, including stalking and harassment. The council has not yet made a final decision on further funding or expansion of the program. The incident highlights growing public debate over the balance between security and civil liberties in the city's use of advanced surveillance technology.