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Captain says 'Flock' cameras help find missing residents and stolen vehicles; board hears privacy safeguards
Summary
Captain Hern Stewart described how automated camera networks ('Flock' cameras) have helped locate missing people, recover stolen vehicles and identify suspects, while staff emphasized audits and responsible use.
Captain Hern Stewart, who oversees criminal investigations, told the board that the county's use of third‑party camera networks (referred to in the meeting as 'Flock') has yielded tangible operational results, including locating a missing older adult and assisting in the recovery of stolen vehicles.
"A lady called in... we did find her that afternoon," Captain Hern Stewart said, describing an incident in which camera evidence narrowed a search across county lines. He emphasized the cameras are one tool among many and described internal checks and audits on their use.
Board members pressed for frequency and oversight. Stewart said camera leads are routinely combined with traditional investigative work (vehicle descriptions, dent and wheel comparisons) and noted the department recently underwent an audit and will report to state police on camera use. The sheriff and staff stressed that as capabilities expand, they will pair technical investments with policy and training to guard civil liberties.
The board did not vote on any change to camera policy at the meeting; members asked staff to continue reporting on audit outcomes and to keep the board informed about operational controls.
