ADRIAN — Lenawee County has approved a new two-year contract for Flock camera systems, advancing plans to install license plate readers at key locations. The move comes as a federal lawsuit in Virginia challenges the constitutionality of the technology.
The Criminal Justice Committee approved the contract after extended discussions about privacy, surveillance concerns, and system auditing. Sheriff Troy Bevier said the cameras will be used strictly for major criminal investigations, with annual reporting and internal audits to ensure proper oversight.
The contract includes three fixed cameras and one mobile unit, with an initial cost of $29,800 in the first year and $25,250 in the second year. Data collected will be retained for 30 days unless it is downloaded for active cases. A final contract stipulation prohibits activating surveillance features beyond license plate reading without future board approval.
Flock representatives attended the committee meeting to address concerns, and the Sheriff’s Office will develop department policies before the system is fully deployed.
The contract approval comes as a federal case in Norfolk, Virginia, is challenging Flock’s license plate reader networks as unconstitutional mass surveillance. If the federal court rules against the system, it could set a precedent that affects Flock camera use nationwide, potentially invalidating contracts like Lenawee County’s.