Arkansas PD ending its Flock license plate reader program

An area police department will no longer use the Flock license plate reader program.

Pea Ridge Arkansas Police Chief Lynn Hahn said the decision does not reflect a lack of confidence in the technology or how officers used it.

He said the department used the system responsibly and in accordance with department policy.

According to Hahn, the license plate reader system helped officers recover stolen vehicles, identify suspects, locate missing people and assist with criminal investigations during its time in use.

Hahn said he still believes license plate reader technology is a valuable investigative tool but that maintaining public trust is equally important.

"Effective policing depends not only on using effective tools but also on maintaining the trust and confidence of the community we serve," Hahn said. "Every tool we use must provide sufficient value to justify its financial cost, administrative burden, and impact on public trust."

Hahn also thanked residents who voiced opinions on both sides of the issue, calling public participation an important part of local government.

He said the department successfully protected the community long before license plate reader technology was available and will continue relying on its officers, detectives and partnerships with neighboring law enforcement agencies to investigate crimes and keep the city safe.

The announcement comes as license plate reader technology continues to face scrutiny in communities across the country over privacy and data-sharing concerns.

The issue also surfaced when the Joplin Police Department said an officer was no longer employed after an internal investigation found the officer improperly used the department's Flock license plate reader system.

Joplin police said the violation involved a single officer, found no evidence of widespread misuse, and implemented additional oversight measures, including monthly audits and revised policies.