Flock Safety

The Sumner Police Department is excited to announce the implementation of Flock Safety Cameras, a cutting-edge technology designed to enhance public safety and reduce crime, particularly auto theft. Funded by a grant from the Washington Auto Theft Prevention Authority, these cameras will help our officers more efficiently and effectively protect our community.

Grant and Financial Details

• Grant Amount: $50,000
• Coverage: The grant covers the first year of the Flock Safety Camera system, including installation and maintenance.
• Annual Cost: After the first year, the system will cost approximately $39,000 per year for ongoing maintenance, software subscriptions, data storage, and support.

Technology and Features

• Automated License Plate Reader (ALRP): The cameras use advanced ALRP technology to capture vehicle license plates and other specific details such as make, model, color, and unique features.
• Solar-Powered: Each camera is equipped with solar panels, eliminating the need to tap into the city’s power infrastructure.
• Real-Time Alerts: The system provides real-time alerts to officers when a vehicle of interest, such as a stolen vehicle or one associated with a crime, is detected.
• Installation: Twelve cameras will be installed at strategic locations throughout the city to monitor vehicles entering and leaving Sumner.

Privacy and Data Security

• Data Collection: The cameras only capture vehicle-related information and do not use facial recognition or collect biometric data.
• Data Retention: All data is securely stored for 30 days and automatically deleted unless flagged for an ongoing investigation.
• Compliance: The system complies with all state laws and is used solely for legitimate law enforcement purposes. All data access is restricted to authorized personnel and requires a case number for any search.

Success Stories The implementation of similar ALRP technology in other cities has shown significant success:

• Yakima: Hundreds of stolen vehicles recovered within a year.
• Tukwila: Three arrests and recovery of three stolen vehicles in one day.
• Liberty Lake: Identification and apprehension of an assault suspect through vehicle identification.

Sumner’s Own Success:

• Case Study: After a shooting incident related to a wedding, Sumner detectives used borrowed ALRP technology to track down and arrest the suspect.
• Winco Shooting: Following a shooting incident at Winco, the vehicle involved was tracked and both suspects were arrested.

Operational Benefits

• Enhanced Patrol Capabilities: The technology allows officers to be more efficient, reducing the need for constant physical patrols and enabling quicker response times.
• Crime Deterrence: The presence of visible cameras acts as a deterrent to potential criminals.
• Community Engagement: Using Flock Safety Cameras helps build community trust by demonstrating the department’s commitment to reducing crime and improving public safety.

Contact and More Information For more details about the Flock Safety Camera Program or any other inquiries, please contact the Sumner Police Department Chief Brad Moericke bradm@sumnerwa.gov.

Stay informed and stay safe with the Sumner Police Department’s latest initiative to protect our community.