When surveillance goes personal: a police officer's misuse of tracking tech

A New Bedford police officer faces scrutiny for allegedly misusing surveillance technology to stalk her ex-girlfriend. This incident raises serious questions about accountability in law enforcement and the risks of surveillance systems.

Told by Peter Ashford · 18 August 2026

In a troubling case unfolding in New Bedford, Massachusetts, a police officer, Emily Pacheco, is under investigation for allegedly using Flock Safety cameras to track her ex-girlfriend. According to a signed affidavit from the ex-partner, the situation escalated after their breakup, leading to unwanted calls and visits from Pacheco.

The affidavit claims Pacheco employed Flock’s tracking system to monitor her ex, conducting hundreds of searches under the guise of 'traffic infractions.' From just 18 searches in April, the number skyrocketed to 220 by June. This kind of behavior raises alarms about the potential for surveillance technology to be misused by those in power.

After the ex-girlfriend sought legal protection, a judge issued an abuse prevention order against Pacheco, citing credible threats to her safety. The ruling included a suspension of Pacheco’s firearm license and a temporary halt to the use of Flock cameras by New Bedford police.

Flock cameras automatically scan license plates, a feature that many argue can lead to invasive surveillance practices. While law enforcement claims these tools help solve crimes, the risks of misuse are substantial. Critics have pointed out instances where officers exploited this technology for personal reasons, highlighting a concerning pattern.

Gideon Epstein, a technology expert, emphasizes the need for accountability in law enforcement's use of such technology. The incident in New Bedford is a stark reminder of how surveillance systems can morph from safety tools into vehicles for personal vendettas, particularly when oversight is lacking.

As cities reevaluate their contracts with surveillance companies, the focus must shift to ensuring that technology serves the public good, not personal agendas. This case serves as a wake-up call to demand stronger checks and balances in police operations.