A New Bedford City Council meeting ended abruptly Thursday night after a heated crowd disrupted discussion of the controversial Flock license plate reader cameras. The council had planned to vote on four motions related to the system, but Council President Ryan Pereira suspended the meeting before any votes could take place.
About 70 people attended after a brief protest outside City Hall, with residents shouting, “Flock off,” “Take them down,” and “De-Flock now.” The council was also expected to consider when Police Chief Paul Oliveira might appear publicly to answer questions about the cameras.
Councilor Brian Gomes, chair of the Public Safety Committee and a longtime supporter of the Police Department, said he supports Flock cameras as long as they are used legally and protect residents’ constitutional rights. His comments drew boos and further shouting from the crowd.
Gomes called for the issue to be reviewed by the Public Safety Committee and said he would support the cameras if he could receive assurances they would not be misused. The exchange became increasingly heated, including criticism of Gomes and his response to some attendees who did not stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Pereira called a recess, and eight police officers arrived outside the chamber. When disruptions continued, he suspended the meeting for lack of decorum.
The council was unable to vote on four Flock-camera proposals after a packed, divided meeting descended into shouting and was suspended. Supporters and opponents remain sharply divided, while further council action and a potential public appearance by the police chief will now be delayed.
