(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Kenosha, Wis. – Kenosha County police agencies have recently implemented a network of advanced surveillance devices known as Flock cameras. These devices, mounted on black poles throughout the county, function as stationary artificial intelligence (AI) “police officers,” monitoring entry and exit points across the city. Currently, about 25 of these cameras are operational within the city limits, costing approximately $3,000 annually per unit to lease.
Flock cameras utilize AI to capture and analyze still images of passing vehicles, identifying features such as license plates, roof racks, trailer hitches, and even vehicle damage. The data collected remains in the system for 30 days, and law enforcement officers require a valid “Law Enforcement Officer Reason” to access the database. These images generally do not depict occupants inside the vehicles.
If a stolen vehicle passes one of these Flock cameras, officers get a “hot sheet” notification and are alerted to the presence of the vehicle, where it is, and which direction is it likely traveling.
(File Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Crime-Solving Capabilities
According to Kenosha Police officials, these cameras have significantly contributed to solving various crimes, aiding in securing convictions and supporting interstate investigations. Some of the notable cases where Flock cameras have been instrumental include:
- The dismantling of an ATM at Blackhawk Credit Union
- Recovery of stolen automobiles
- Solving numerous disorderly conduct incidents, retail thefts, and bank robberies
- Assisting in sexual assault cases, burglaries, and even a stabbing investigation
Captain James Beller, Commander of the Detective Bureau, has been a leading advocate for the program, while Chief Patrick Patton played a key role in securing funding from the city council and mayor’s office.
Beyond city-funded installations, some homeowner associations and private entities have also adopted Flock cameras, often allowing law enforcement access to the recorded data.
Balancing Security and Privacy
Despite their success in crime prevention, some community members express concerns over privacy. Law enforcement officials argue that these cameras are less intrusive than traditional surveillance systems, as they focus primarily on vehicle identification rather than individuals.
Powered by solar energy, Flock cameras operate efficiently with minimal downtime. Given their effectiveness, the Kenosha Police Department is seeking opportunities to expand the program further. Business owners interested in sponsoring a camera can contact Captain Beller at the Kenosha Police Detective Bureau – 262-605-5215
Mughot
Notable Arrests Facilitated by Flock Cameras
In a high-profile case, an alleged serial rapist was apprehended thanks to intelligence gathered from a Flock camera. The suspect, Carlos E. Scott Jr., was linked to multiple sexual assault cases, including an attack at Carthage College on March 26, 2024. The camera system played a crucial role in tracking his vehicle and connecting him to similar offenses in Evanston, Illinois.
(Kenosha County Sheriff)
In another case, a hit-and-run incident that resulted in serious injuries was solved with the help of Flock camera footage. On November 9, 2024, a bicyclist alerted Kenosha police about a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. Investigators used camera data to identify and arrest the suspect, Leonel Vera-Gonzalez, who was later charged with Hit and Run – Great Bodily Harm.
As Kenosha continues to integrate AI-driven technology into law enforcement, Flock cameras are proving to be a valuable tool in enhancing public safety and ensuring justice is served.
(Kenosha Police Facebook)
14 Responses
Just one step closer to us being a 15 minute SMART city
This is an incredible invasion of privacy. We are nuts to allow the government the ability to surveil us “whenever there is a valid law enforcement officer reason’!?!? WTF! Go get a warrant, otherwise leave me alone.
How about doing something about running red lights? Maybe station officer with camera on medium at 39th ave and 75th street and every other intersection in this town. Was stopped at the red light police car in the next lane we watched car run red light and all he did was shake his head so much for protecting our safety.
That hasn’t worked in the past. In fact KPD will sit at an red light and watch vehicles from their left and right, blowing past immediate red lights. This is what causes accidents. The cops will then turn their heads to see who watching them or stay ignorant and pretend it never happened. Its corruption and lazy KPD at their finest. Each time we meet up with our people from Ktown, we joke about the most recent one and all of KPD recent corruption escapades. This is how often it happens in that city
Put cameras and maybe redo that intersection completely… my daughter and mom were in a horrible car accident there last year. Non stop accidents there.
WisDOT Solutions to intersections like these has been roundabouts.
Respect the badge? Ha
where are the blade runners when you need them? Big Brother cameras in Millsville
Patton has them programmed to photograph himself each time he passes.
These are in Gurnee and we have one at work on private property that Gurnee PD uses. They are a great tool and should be used more
Sheep. I guess you don’t value your rights. Sucker
How quickly do these sheep forgot what they did to spy on Trump. Idiots.
Not if it’s against yours and mine Constitutional Rights, they shouldn’t be used, period. The corporations give the ones who lease these Flock cameras boat loads of money to get the data to insurance companies, P.I. Whatever 3rd party wants these for, they use these Flock cameras. We’re already in an surveillance state.
Cameras in public places don’t violate anyone’s rights. I hope they put up 300 more, and help them locate criminals. I don’t care if the see my car at every intersection I pass through, I’m not doing anything wrong…. When the criminals need to feel scared, I live whatever technology creates that feeling.