The Henry County Sheriff’s Office will discontinue its use of Flock Safety automatic license plate reader cameras at the end of August, citing community concerns surrounding the technology and data privacy.
Sheriff Josh Verscheure announced that the department will end its partnership with Flock Safety effective Aug. 31, 2026.
The Sheriff’s Office has operated eight Flock Safety cameras throughout Henry County since 2024. According to Verscheure, the cameras were paid for entirely with proceeds from drug seizures and did not use Henry County taxpayer dollars.
The cameras automatically capture information associated with passing vehicles, including license plates, and can be used by law enforcement as an investigative tool.
Verscheure said the system has assisted deputies in numerous cases during the approximately two years it has been in operation.
“The Flock system has assisted our Deputies in numerous cases and has provided a valuable investigative tool,” Verscheure said.
The Sheriff’s Office also stated that it has found no indication that its personnel misused, abused or improperly used the technology during that period.
Despite its investigative benefits, Verscheure said the department recognizes the public debate surrounding automatic license plate readers, including concerns about data privacy and the balance between law enforcement uses of technology and individual privacy.
“After careful consideration, the Sheriff’s Office has made the decision to end its partnership with Flock Safety,” Verscheure said.
He described ending the program as a difficult decision because the cameras had provided legitimate investigative value and helped law enforcement identify vehicles potentially connected to criminal activity.
“At the same time, we believe public trust and confidence in law enforcement are critical,” Verscheure said.
The decision follows public discussion of Flock cameras locally and elsewhere as communities consider how license plate reader systems should be used and what safeguards should accompany them.
“Ultimately, the Sheriff’s Office believes that listening to the concerns of the community is an important part of law enforcement,” Verscheure said. “We appreciate everyone who has taken the time to express their opinions, whether in support of or opposition to the technology.”
The Sheriff’s Office said it remains committed to using law enforcement technology responsibly and transparently.
The announcement specifically addresses the eight cameras operated by the Henry County Sheriff’s Office.
As of Wednesday, The Current has not independently confirmed any change to the separate Flock Safety camera program operated within the City of Geneseo.
The Henry County Sheriff's Office cameras are scheduled to cease operation under the partnership on Aug. 31.