Alexandria, a city in Virginia, has announced plans to shut down all 61 of its Flock Safety surveillance cameras within 48 hours, ending the city's use of the controversial automated license plate reader system following months of public criticism.

The decision comes amid growing national scrutiny of Flock's technology, which uses cameras to capture license plate information and vehicle details that can be searched by participating law enforcement agencies. Supporters argue the systems help police investigate crimes, locate stolen vehicles and identify suspects, while critics warn that they create extensive records of Americans' movements.

Privacy concerns have been central to the backlash in Alexandria, where residents have questioned how the information collected by the cameras is stored, accessed and shared. Opponents have also raised concerns about the potential for surveillance data to be used beyond the local investigations for which it was originally collected.

The shutdown represents a significant reversal for the city's surveillance program and reflects the pressure local governments are facing as residents demand greater accountability over police technology and the collection of personal information.

Alexandria's decision also comes as communities across the country debate whether the public safety benefits of automated license plate readers justify the privacy risks. The technology has become a growing point of contention between law enforcement agencies seeking additional investigative tools and residents concerned about government monitoring.

With all 61 cameras scheduled to go offline within 48 hours, Alexandria will join the growing debate over the role of surveillance technology in American communities.