JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. — The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office has terminated its contract with FLOCK, ending the use of automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras in rural Josephine County.
Sheriff Dave Daniel said the Sheriff’s Office entered into a contract with FLOCK for 10 cameras to help law enforcement identify and locate stolen vehicles, wanted or missing people associated with specific vehicles, and assist with criminal investigations.
In recent months, some of the equipment and technology has been targeted and vandalized. The Sheriff’s Office also acknowledged growing public concerns about ALPR technology and its potential impact on Fourth Amendment rights.
According to Daniel, law enforcement agencies across the country have faced similar issues involving theft, vandalism and public opposition to FLOCK technology, resulting in numerous contract cancellations.
“While the technology has been beneficial in solving crime and overall public safety, it is clear much of Josephine County is not ready or willing to accept the use of ALPR technology,” Daniel said.
Daniel said the Sheriff’s Office works for the public and is responding to those concerns. He requested that Josephine County Legal Counsel send FLOCK a “contract termination for convenience” letter.
The termination is effective immediately. FLOCK ALPR cameras are no longer activated in rural Josephine County, and the Sheriff’s Office’s contract with the company has ended.
Some of the equipment remains in the field, but officials said it is no longer being used. It is not yet known when FLOCK will remove the remaining equipment.
Daniel thanked the community for its continued support of the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office and said the agency will continue its mission to “Protect with Courage and Serve with Compassion.”
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