DARK SIDE

Darth Vader Interrupts City Council Over Controversial Police Cameras

The bizarre appearance focused on police use of license plate-reading cameras.

A man dressed as Darth Vader used a San Diego City Council meeting to deliver a satirical warning about the city’s use of Flock surveillance cameras. The unidentified speaker appeared Thursday in a full Darth Vader costume during a meeting focused on public safety. When “Darth Vader” was called for public comment, he approached the podium and declared his “support” for the license plate-reading cameras in the Star Wars villain’s distinctive voice. Vader said the “Emperor” was also a fan because the technology could help them surveil “rebel scum,” follow children and even help him stalk his ex-girlfriend. The stunt appeared aimed at concerns over Flock’s automated license plate readers, which upload vehicle information to a searchable database used by law enforcement. The cameras have helped authorities find missing people and investigate major crimes, but privacy concerns have fueled growing opposition. The Washington Post identified nearly 50 cases in which officers were accused or charged with improperly using surveillance systems, including to track romantic partners.