ADRIAN, Mich. — Lenawee County is taking steps to join the national Flock camera network — an automated license plate recognition system used by law enforcement to track suspect vehicles in real-time.
Sheriff Troy Bevier told WLEN the system has already helped solve crimes in neighboring counties, including homicides and theft cases. The Sheriff’s Office plans to begin with seven fixed cameras placed on county-owned roadways. Bevier said the decision to start small allows officials to monitor performance and ensure the program is implemented with appropriate oversight.
That was Lenawee County Sheriff Troy Bevier.
The initial cost is roughly $55,000, covered through the county’s Criminal Justice Allocation fund. After the first year, recurring subscription and maintenance costs are expected.
County officials say the system does not access personal databases and only tracks vehicle descriptions and license plates flagged by investigators. The network connects Lenawee with more than 18 counties and dozens of municipalities across Michigan already using Flock.
Proponents say it enhances public safety, helps locate missing persons, and fills gaps in areas with limited patrols.