A year or two ago, I wrote about the installation of new cameras that were being seen throughout Mooresville. I assumed that by now, most people would be accustomed to them and aware of their purpose. However, I recently came across a post on social media where someone questioned the function of these cameras, and based on the comments, it was clear that most individuals had no idea. These cameras are known as “Flock Cameras.” They are solar-powered, high-definition still image cameras designed to capture license plates as vehicles pass by.

The captured license plate numbers and vehicle descriptions are automatically entered into the FBI’s criminal information database. The information is then distributed to local law enforcement agencies to assist in locating and tracking fugitives, stolen cars, and criminal suspects. Some may argue that this system infringes on privacy (“Big Brother”), but I find the system quite impressive when you see the results. The numbers are staggering. It works.

Currently, over 2,500 law enforcement agencies utilize Flock Cameras. It’s worth noting that Flock Cameras are not exclusive to law enforcement agencies. Businesses, shopping centers, schools, and neighborhoods can also employ these cameras. In my own neighborhood, we have two Flock Cameras in place to monitor all incoming traffic 24 hours a day.

Over the past 30 days, these two cameras have recorded a total of 52,000 license plate images, with over 9,400 unique plate reads. Out of the 9,400 vehicles that entered my neighborhood, 30 of them appeared on the “hot list.” The hot list consists of license plates or vehicles that are known to be stolen or associated with criminal activity. Now, does this make my neighborhood unsafe? No. This is a common occurrence in every neighborhood; it simply makes us more aware.

Every neighborhood in Mooresville has dealt with theft or vandalism at some point. It doesn’t matter how much or how little your home is worth. No community is 100% immune from criminal acts. The Flock Camera cannot prevent the act, but it can SIGNIFICANTLY increase the chances of catching the perpetrators that did it.

Imagine your doorbell camera capturing the moment when the high school football team rolls your front yard in toilet paper, with all of them boldly wearing their football jerseys. Figuring out “Who Dunnit” doesn’t take genius. Imagine leaving your car at the airport for a week not knowing that it was stolen the day you left it there. The police enter your license plate into the system and an hour later the car is located and recovered in Myrtle Beach. That’s pretty impressive.