byNathan Warby
Published: Aug 21, 2026, 11:40
City of San Diego
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San Diego officials heard an unusual argument over the city’s use of Flock cameras when Sith Lord Darth Vader showed up to discuss them.
Flock Cameras have been a divisive issue in the United States. This system automatically reads number plates and creates a police database that can be used to easily track vehicles, leading to some concerns about constant public surveillance.
A man wearing a Star Wars villain’s costume spoke during the Public Safety and Livable Neighborhoods Committee meeting in San Diego on August 19, using references from the sci-fi series to mock the city’s use of the cameras.
The costumed fan, who was even referred to as Darth Vader by the committee, explained that the technology is something that the Galactic Empire would appreciate.
Man dressed as Darth Vader mocks Flock cameras at council meeting
“The Emperor is a fan of Flock, and we must continue utilizing Flock technologies so that we can follow and surveil the rebel scum as they move from playground to playground, from playground to pool, from pool to gymnasium,” he said in the video posted by the City of San Diego.
He also joked that he needed access to the cameras “so I can stalk my ex-girlfriend,” before continuing:
“This is what the emperor needs. This technology will help us find the rebel scum and the hidden base on Hoth.”
City of San DiegoHe continued the bit by claiming the cameras would help locate Luke Skywalker in his X-Wing, describing the technology as a “necessary, necessary force.” But the comments soon turned more directly towards concerns over how surveillance tools can be used.
