Flock camera technology won't be used in Latimer County, sheriff says

The Latimer County Sheriff's Office will not use Flock Safety automated license plate reader cameras, according to Sheriff Adam Woodruff.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Woodruff said he made the decision after reviewing the technology and weighing concerns about privacy and constitutional rights.

"While these systems have assisted some law enforcement agencies in solving crimes, they have also generated legitimate concerns across the country regarding privacy, data sharing, transparency, and the potential for misuse," Woodruff explained.

Flock Safety cameras are automated license plate readers used by law enforcement agencies to help identify vehicles connected to criminal investigations.

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The technology has been adopted by agencies across Oklahoma and the country, but it has also prompted debate over privacy and how collected data is stored and shared.

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The Sheriff said his team are able to protect residents without using the camera system.

"I believe we can continue protecting our communities through proactive policing, strong partnerships with our citizens, and sound investigative work without creating a system that many residents feel could infringe on their privacy," he said.

Woodruff also said the people of Latimer County "deserve both security and freedom" and pledged that the sheriff's office will not implement Flock camera systems while he serves as sheriff.

"I will continue to stand for public safety while protecting the constitutional rights and privacy of the citizens I was elected to serve," Woodruff said.