The Controversial Flock Cameras In Troy, New York Have Been Vandalized

You'd have to look hard for a bigger issue than surveillance in Troy, New York right now. Flock Cameras, the widespread license plate readers, have been the subject of Troy's hottest political issue.

Read More: Troy City Council Sues Mayor over Flock Camera Usage

That might have finally come to a head, as acts of vandalism have become the new norm with these cameras...

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Troy's Flock Fiasco

In early 2026, the City of Troy began placing Flock Cameras across the city as a way to help the local police. Some city politicians were not a fan of the quickness the contracts with Flock (a private company) were signed, so they refused to update the contract when its time was up.

Troy Mayor Carmella Mantello was not a fan of that, and declared a state of emergency to ensure the cameras would remain in service. That did not go over well with the City Council... at all. Regardless, the contract is still being upheld, and Flock stays in service in Troy.

Vandalism

On Friday, July 24th, Mayor Mantello shared three photos on Facebook showing three separate Flock Cameras that had been vandalized and/or destroyed. The cameras were located on Hoosick Street, Oakwood Avenue and Northern Drive, and investigators believe the vandalism occurred between 11:30pm and midnight on Thursday, July 23rd.

While these cameras have been controversial, they are still used by the City of Troy and Troy police, and therefore are protected. Despite public pushback, Troy Police continue to state that these cameras are an invaluable tool for the force, and that violence against them will not be tolerated.