.png)
Chief cites public concerns, state funding changes
The Elgin Police Department has paused the city’s use of Flock Safety license plate reader cameras while officials consider whether to resume or cancel the program.
Police Chief Chris Noble announced the decision in a Sept. 2 letter to Mayor Theresa McShan and Acting City Manager Beau Perry, citing growing controversy over how Flock data is used, stored and shared. He said the pause will remain in effect until he receives further direction from elected officials.
“The decision to pause the cameras was my decision, solely,” Noble said.
Elgin’s system includes 25 cameras and a mobile trailer equipped with four of its own.
According to the chief, the cameras have played a significant role in investigations ranging from violent offenses to property crimes.
“Regrettably, there will be a direct impact on our ability to investigate crimes,” Noble said.
The overall program costs roughly $102,000 annually, according to officials. Thirteen cameras are funded through the city’s general fund at a cost
“There will be a direct impact on our ability to investigate crimes.”
— Police Chief Chris Noble of about $39,000 per year, while 12 cameras and the trailer are supported by a Texas Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority grant totaling around $63,000.
Noble said he learned Sept. 2 that Gov. Greg Abbott had ordered state agencies to stop funding Flock cameras, which he said will directly affect the grant-funded portion of Elgin’s system.
“I believe this is a good time to follow the governor’s lead and pause our use of Flock Safety until our elected officials determine if resumption or cancellation is in the best interests of the Elgin community,” Noble said in the letter.
The chief noted controversy has grown nationally following incidents in which law enforcement officers misused the cameras for personal reasons.
A Lufkin police officer has been charged with 100 felony counts of alleged misuse of Flock information, and other criminal investigations involving misuse are underway, according to Capital Highlights by Gary Borders.
Noble said he has not received concerns tied to a specific incident in Elgin, but the issue has become significant enough that community input is warranted.
“It must be the community’s decision on what to do next,” he said.
The department also plans to discuss the pause and possible cancellation with Flock Safety.
“It must be the community’s decision on what to do next.”
— Police Chief Chris Noble
