Damaging Flock cameras is crime
A Flock automated license plate reader stands watch along an Anderson County roadway. Although the technology has generated controversy locally and on social media, authorities warn that damaging or disabling the cameras is a crime. Regardless of opposition to the use of automated license plate readers, vandalizing the equipment can result in criminal charges under Tennessee law, with the severity of the charge depending on the value of the damage. (photo:Ben Pounds )
Flock cameras may be controversial, but messing with them is still a crime.
Capt. Brandon Floyd with the Clinton Police Department said as with other vandalism, it’s governed by Tennessee law.
Penalties depend on the financial amount of damage.
Under the law, under $1,000 would be a misdemeanor, $1,000 to $2,000 a Class E felony, $2,500 to $10,000 a Class D felony, $10,000 to $60,000 a Class C felony, and $60,000 or more a Class B felony.
Vandals damaged two cameras belonging to Anderson County Sheriff’s Office: a mobile one and one at the Racoon Valley Road and Clinton Highway intersection, ACSO Public Information Officer and Anderson County Commissioner J. Shain Vowell stated.
The Courier News reached out to Oak Ridge and Clinton authorities but did not get confirmation or responses on any camera vandalism.