Concerns about privacy and accountability are intensifying as reports emerge of police officers nationwide misusing Flock Safety camera systems. Fox News correspondent Danamarie McNicholl reports on this issue on ‘America Reports.’
A former Indiana sheriff’s deputy, Skylar Thompson, is facing charges for allegedly abusing access to Flock camera technology. He is accused of using the system to stalk his girlfriend by conducting over 2,000 searches for her license plate. Thompson, 31, has been charged with official misconduct as a Level 6 felony and a misdemeanor count of fraud.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department discovered the misuse during an internal audit. They reported Thompson’s actions to the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office, which revealed that the searches occurred between December 31, 2025, and August 2.
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. No person is above the law, including those entrusted with enforcing it.
Prosecutors said Thompson wrongly listed his searches under “city planning/traffic analysis,” tasks he was not assigned. Upon investigation by the Indiana State Police, Thompson confessed to his actions and resigned from the sheriff’s department after being confronted about the allegations. He admitted his misuse to his then-girlfriend, as reported by WKBN-TV.
Flock cameras serve as license plate readers in towns across the nation, but they face scrutiny over potential privacy infringements. Paris Lewbel, a spokesperson for Flock Safety, defended their technology, describing it as a vital tool for public safety. According to Lewbel, it aids law enforcement in solving serious crimes and supporting safer communities by finding missing persons and recovering stolen vehicles.
Lewbel emphasized the company’s commitment to backing thoughtful legislation ensuring privacy, transparency, and accountability. This would help guarantee the responsible use of such technology, preserving law enforcement’s ability to maintain safety.