Mountain Home Police Chief Eddie Griffin has reaffirmed the city’s commitment to the use of Flock license plate cameras amid growing statewide debate over privacy concerns and costs associated with the technology. The city currently operates five Flock cameras, with two additional units expected to be installed soon. The total cost to purchase the cameras was just under $25,000, and the annual operation fee is $3,000 per camera, totaling $21,000 annually. The 14th Judicial Prosecutor’s Office will assist with these expenses, according to Griffin.
The cameras, which are strategically placed along key roads leading in and out of the city as well as near the Community Center, are designed to read and log license plates. Griffin emphasized that their primary purpose is to enhance public safety. “If someone has questions about how the system works or any concerns, they are welcome to reach out. I’d be glad to answer them or even demonstrate how the cameras operate,” Griffin stated.
The use of Flock cameras has become a contentious issue, as some cities across Arkansas, including Searcy, Farmington, and Pea Ridge, have recently decided against renewing their contracts with Flock, citing privacy concerns and cost. Cabot has temporarily deactivated its cameras while evaluating whether to continue their use. Conversely, some departments, such as Sherwood, have reported significant successes. Since installing Flock cameras in 2021, Sherwood police have located seven missing persons and recovered numerous stolen vehicles.
Assistant Police Chief Robert McCoy provided insight into the safeguards designed to prevent misuse of the cameras. McCoy explained that access to stored data is strictly controlled and is only available to authorized personnel during investigations. Chief Griffin acknowledged that some residents are wary of the system but noted that in similar cases, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that license plate readers do not violate privacy rights.
Griffin did not dismiss concerns over potential abuse of the system but stressed that misuse of any law enforcement tool is always a possibility. “If an officer abuses their position, it can happen in any aspect of the job, not just with Flock cameras,” Griffin remarked. He reiterated that the system is meant as an investigative tool and not for unwarranted surveillance.
Despite the wider debate, Griffin sees no reason to discontinue the cameras in Mountain Home. Drawing attention to misconceptions surrounding the technology, he expressed confidence in the cameras’ value for ensuring public safety and encouraged dialogue with community members to address their concerns.