New Restrictions Imposed on Flock Camera System Usage by Athens-Clarke County Police
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD) has introduced new limitations on accessing its Flock camera systems, a move aimed at tightening control and ensuring proper use of the surveillance technology.
Under the revised policy, only officers holding the rank of lieutenant or higher are permitted to access the system. Additionally, any usage by a lieutenant must receive approval from a communications administrator or a higher-ranking officer, marking a significant change in the department’s protocol.
This decision follows a reported misuse of the system by a department employee. On August 27, a complaint was filed by the ex-wife of Nick Barker, who served as the Criminal Intelligence Analyst Supervisor, alleging that Barker had used the Flock Automated License Plate Reader System for personal purposes.
Investigations disclosed that Barker had repeatedly employed the system to track his ex-wife’s vehicle in 2025. According to an ACCPD press release, Barker was promptly dismissed following these revelations. Notably, Barker was a non-sworn civilian employee at the time of this misuse.
Interestingly, Barker had previously expressed support for the department’s surveillance system in a discussion with Cameron Jay of the Classic City Crime Podcast. When questioned about preventing ‘nefarious purposes’ with the system, Barker assured that there were existing safeguards. “We have a very strict LPR policy when it comes here,” Barker emphasized, “Every time you search anything regarding LPR, you have a law enforcement purpose for that.”
The incident is currently under investigation by both the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the ACCPD Office of Professional Standards, reflecting the seriousness with which the department is treating the allegations.
Chief of Police Jerry Saulters has stated his dedication to thoroughly reviewing the use of license plate reader technology within the ACCPD, underscoring the department’s commitment to ethical and lawful surveillance practices.
