Sumpter police reject Flock traffic cameras
The Sumpter Police Department has cancelled an agreement to install 11 Flock Falcon ALPR cameras along township borders.
Public Safety Director/Police Chief Eric Luke posted a statement on social media announcing the cancellation of an April agreement to install the controversial traffic license plate reader devices. The cameras were to have been installed at no cost to the township for a 60-day test period. The stated purpose was an effort to alert township police when stolen vehicles or those linked to criminal activity entered Sumpter Township.
“Our goal was to leverage technology to help maintain the highest standards of safety and security for our community,” the social media post stated.
“After careful consideration of public feedback, the department has canceled the agreement with Flock, effective immediately. Since no cameras have been installed, no removal is necessary,” the post continued.
“We place the highest value on the trust our community gives us. While technology can enhance modern law enforcement, true public safety is built on direct relationships, transparency, and shared values with our community,” Luke continued.
Luke acknowledged the “passionate views” sparked by national debate over technology in policing—ranging from ALPRs to drones but said that the focus of the township department remains local.
“Our approach is always centered on the unique needs of Sumpter Township’s 36 square miles and, most importantly, on the well-being of our residents,” the post continued.
The camera installations were also removed last month from Westland following public protests and criticism.
Ten cameras primarily located along Ford Road prompted strong public criticism questioning the impact on personal privacy posed by the devices.
Westland Police Chief Kyle Dawley said controversy regarding the devices centered on access to the data collected by federal agencies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Officials from Flock Safety issued a statement defending the technology arguing that removing systems used to solve violent crimes can slow investigations.
The company said that in 2025 its technology supported more than one million criminal investigations and incidents, contributed to an estimated 20 percent of solved cases in jurisdictions where it is deployed, and helped locate more than 10,000 missing people.
