Riverside County launches “Flock Fridays” to explain license plate cameras

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is launching a new social media campaign aimed at explaining how Flock Safety cameras are used.

The campaign, called “Flock Fridays,” will focus on what the department says are facts and misconceptions surrounding the technology.

Flock cameras are automated license plate readers that capture information about vehicles. Law enforcement says that data can help identify suspect vehicles and assist in criminal investigations.

But the technology has also raised concerns about privacy and how the information is stored and shared.

Sheriff Chad Bianco says the department routinely audits access to the system and takes action when officers misuse the technology.

He says there are specific laws governing who the information can be shared with and that officers are expected to use the system appropriately.

Bianco acknowledged that an officer could potentially misuse the technology, but said the department would investigate and discipline anyone found doing so.

The Sheriff’s Department shares Flock camera information with several agencies across California, including agencies in Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino counties.

Bianco also confirmed the department is currently investigating possible misuse of Riverside County’s Flock Safety camera information on behalf of a state agency.

He declined to identify the agency or provide additional details, citing the ongoing investigation.

The Sheriff’s Department says the “Flock Fridays” campaign will show the public what the cameras can and cannot do, while highlighting how the technology is being used to help solve crimes.