Elkton police outline grant‑funded license‑plate reader program, cite $12,300 cost and quarterly audits

On June 1, 2026, Elkton Police Chief Mike King presented an overview of the department’s Flock license‑plate reader (LPR) camera system, saying the procurement was funded through a Virginia State Police grant and that the equipment cost $12,300, an amount the minutes say did not meet the town’s procurement threshold requiring Council approval.

Chief Mike King described how the department selected camera locations, noted that installations are prohibited within Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) rights‑of‑way, and said the town uses lease agreements with private property owners who consent to host the cameras. King emphasized that data‑use is governed by law and that the Town will submit quarterly data audits to the Virginia State Police. Sergeant Ryan Insina encouraged residents to contact the Elkton Police Department with questions or concerns to “clarify misconceptions and promote a better understanding of the program,” according to the meeting minutes.

The presentation included several case examples the chief said demonstrate how LPR technology has helped solve crimes and identify suspects. The minutes record the presentation as an informational briefing; no council action or vote on the system occurred during the meeting.

Authorities and procedural details referenced in the presentation include a Virginia State Police grant (funding source), the Town’s Procurement Policy (procurement threshold), stated legal limits on data use (described generally as “governed by law” in the minutes), and the prohibition on installation within VDOT rights‑of‑way. The minutes list the presentation after the formal adjournment of the meeting.