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Erath County is doubling down on Flock license-plate cameras after they helped nab an arson suspect. While the tech is proving effective for police, it’s keeping the local debate over privacy and government surveillance front and center.
At a glance
Rising — being discussed more frequently. 2 mentions in the last 30 days.
Taxpayer dollars are being funneled into these high-tech surveillance tools, which come with ongoing subscription and maintenance costs.
Local law enforcement agencies gain a powerful tool to track suspects and solve crimes faster.
Privacy advocates worry that constant tracking of everyday drivers creates a 'Big Brother' environment.
By SARA VANDEN BERGE Erath County commissioners on Monday voted to keep Flock cameras in the budget, despite opposition from some citizens. Erath County Judge Brandon Huckabee said he understands both sides of the issue. “I understand some of the concerns that have been brought to us and I have also seen the good that’s come from how law enforcement and prosecutors utilize them,” Huckabee told Beneath the Surface News. Click here to read a report on a recent arson arrest using Flock cameras. Hu
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By SARA VANDEN BERGE The following report is based off the arrest warrant for Dana Whitley Buckelew, obtained by Beneath the Surface News. Erath County District Attorney Alan Nash said the use of flock cameras led investigators to Buckelew’s arrest. (Read the original report here.)“But for the availability of flock cameras to identify the perpetrator's vehicle on public roadways, the arsonist would not have been identified, apprehended and neutralized as a threat so quickly,” Nash said. The use