Bay Village Police Department adds Flock camera system

The Bay Village Police Department has added eight Flock cameras throughout the community to support its work.

The solar-powered system is used by 130 law enforcement agencies throughout the state of Ohio. The city will spend approximately $25,000 for the cameras this year.

"Within the last two years, we've been inundated with auto thefts," Sgt. Edward Chapman told 3News, "The cost is outweighed by the benefit to the community."

The Flock system is designed to identity license plates associated with crimes, including wanted suspects and stolen vehicles. It allows law enforcement agencies to be aware of vehicles that have shown up in neighboring communities.

Between Bay Village, Lakewood, Avon, and Westlake alone, there are 73 Flock cameras in operation. Police can look for specific indicators as well, whether that be of a gang member or terrorist, someone with warrants, or an Amber Alert.

"Obviously, any missing child, any missing person, that's something we're going to give priority to," Chapman said.

Neil Fischer reports: https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/loc... --

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