CHETEK, Wis. (NWN) — The City of Chetek has deactivated its social media accounts, including it’s Facebook page, on which the city live streams city council meetings.
The city made the announcement Friday, saying it was due to threats made to city employees.
The Chetek Police Department and police chief have received public backlash after purchasing two AI-powered license plate reader cameras, often known by the brand name, Flock. The controversial devices drew fire from some residents over privacy concerns and over the devices themselves being installed without the city council’s knowledge or approval.
Chetek Mayor Jeff Martin told news media that city employees and the police chief received death threats because of the cameras, and turned off its social media accounts on the advice of the city attorney.