Sheriff's statement on the use of Flock cameras

A statement from Sheriff Dallas Baldwin:

 

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is currently conducting a review of how Flock camera technology and the information it provides is being used.

 

After hearing about instances of the technology being misused by other law enforcement agencies, I felt it was important to conduct a review to ensure that this technology is solely being used as an investigative tool in my office.

As previously reported, FCSO does not have a contract with Flock for the stationary cameras currently being discussed in the media. The office has never had those stationary cameras. In limited circumstances, including homicide investigations and missing-person cases, FCSO does employ mobile cameras. FCSO also has agreements with several townships that allow our investigators to access their Flock data when appropriate.

Our initial review has found that searches conducted by one of our deputies have raised concerns regarding the deputy’s use of the Flock system. Because we are still in the early stages of the investigation, we are not identifying the deputy. We are also working to develop and implement an internal auditing process to ensure appropriate use moving forward.

I want to be clear: I take the public’s concerns regarding their privacy interests seriously. I recognize that Law Enforcement must strive to maintain the public’s trust. These types of cameras have proven to be valuable investigative tools in many cases, but that technology must be used for legitimate investigative purposes.

At this time, no further information will be made available until our investigation is complete.