Concerns Grow Over Misuse of Flock Safety Camera Systems

Mounting Scrutiny of License Plate Reader Technology

Fox News correspondent Danamarie McNicholl has reported on the arrest of police officers nationwide accused of misusing Flock Safety camera systems. The technology’s use by law enforcement agencies has sparked increasing concerns about privacy and accountability. These issues were discussed on ‘America Reports.’

Indiana Incident Highlights Problems

Skylar Thompson, a former Indiana sheriff’s deputy, has been charged with abusing access to Flock camera technology to stalk his girlfriend over a year. Allegedly, he conducted more than 2,000 searches for her license plate. Thompson, 31, has been charged with a Level 6 felony count of official misconduct and a misdemeanor count of fraud.

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department identified Thompson’s misuse during an internal audit conducted between December 31, 2025, and August 2. According to the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office, Thompson falsely categorized his searches under “city planning/traffic analysis.” He was reportedly never tasked with duties related to these categories.

Indiana State Police were called to investigate. Thompson turned himself in after being confronted by authorities and resigned from his position at the sheriff’s department. Reports indicate he even visited his girlfriend’s home to admit his actions.

“Law enforcement officers are entrusted with access to sensitive information and investigative tools, and that access must be used responsibly and only for legitimate law enforcement purposes,” stated the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office. “No person is above the law, including those entrusted with enforcing it.”

Nationwide Concerns Over Technology

Flock cameras are deployed across various towns in the United States as license plate readers. However, the technology has been under scrutiny due to privacy concerns and its potential misuse.

Paris Lewbel, a spokesperson for Flock Safety, defended the technology in a statement provided to Fox News Digital. Lewbel emphasized the tool’s importance in public safety, aiding law enforcement agencies in solving crimes, finding missing persons, recovering stolen vehicles, and maintaining community safety.

Lewbel expressed support for thoughtfully crafted legislation that ensures privacy, transparency, and accountability. “We support thoughtful legislation and strong privacy, transparency, and accountability guardrails that ensure technology is used responsibly while preserving law enforcement’s ability to use effective tools to keep people safe,” Lewbel stated.