Sterling Heights police outline Flock license-plate reader use as council debates data and oversight

Chief Andrew Satterfield and Captain Jason Bizorf presented Sterling Heights' use of Flock automated license-plate readers and urged continued use as a public-safety tool.

"Flock is an automated license plate reader," Captain Jason Bizorf said, describing the system the department uses and saying the cameras collect plate numbers, vehicle make, model, color, time and camera location and that images are retained for 30 days. Bizorf said the department does not use facial recognition, does not capture audio and that searches require a case number and listed offense before an officer can run them.

Satterfield told the council the system has aided several investigations. "Using the Flock system, we also found out that this vehicle was stolen out of Troy the day prior...Within hours, we had the suspect in custody," he said, recounting a bank-robbery case he said was solved with ALPR assistance. The chief recommended the council approve continued use, noting monthly audits and disciplinary consequences for misuse.

Council members and residents questioned how the networked system shares data, whether federal or outside agencies can access Sterling Heights' records, and whether the vendor or third-party cloud hosts can view or retain images. City Manager Mark Vanderpool and the chief said external agencies must present a reason for searches and that the department can remove partners who misuse the system. Vanderpool also agreed to work with IT and police to provide more technical and contractual detail when requested by council.