Flock cameras to continue in Cranston as public safety results far exceed expectations

Mayor Kenneth J. Hopkins has announced that the city has extended the police contract for the Flock Safety Automated License Plate Reader camera program for an additional five years.

“The license plate reader technology has been an invaluable tool for our police department in apprehending criminals traveling in our city,” said Hopkins. “I totally support the police leadership’s desire to extend the Flock Safety plate reader contract.”

“Safe neighborhoods and protecting lives and properties stand as our top public safety priority,” stated Hopkins. “Two years ago, when we started the initial trial period, some argued about invasion of privacy and the potential for the misuse of data collection. With trust in our department, I immediately endorsed the plans of the police leadership to employ the Flock system.”    

Hopkins emphasized that Cranston was a pacesetter in using the plate reader technology, and “other communities have followed us in using this crime-fighting technology.” The Mayor said he is “totally satisfied with the use of the camera equipment, the administrative oversight, and the overall effectiveness in protecting our city.”

“When criminals enter our borders intending to do harm or damage, the Flock system is a critical line of defense,” he said. “Vehicles associated with criminal activity driving through Cranston from another municipality will be promptly detected and intercepted in aid of the other departments.”

Hopkins praised Cranston Police Colonel Michael Winquist and his command staff, who he described as a dedicated complement of professional men and women. Hopkins said, “we need to ensure law enforcement members have the resources to comprehensively protect our community, including weapons, equipment, cutting edge technology, and the most advanced training.”

Results far outweigh concerns

Police Chief Winquist stated, “License plate readers have proven valuable in preventing and solving crime. Since our plate reader cameras came online in August of 2021, we have recovered 76 stolen vehicles (resulting in 80 arrests), located 8 missing and endangered persons, arrested 40 persons wanted on warrants, and arrested 19 persons for stolen property. The cameras have directly assisted in solving notable crimes such as bank robberies, drive-by shootings, carjackings, the apprehension of wanted sex offenders, sexual assault suspects, and many others that pose a danger to the public. The cameras also deter criminals contemplating coming to our city to attempt to victimize our residents and business owners. We look forward to using this proven technology responsibly and effectively for the foreseeable future.”

Mayor Hopkins emphasized that Cranston is safer because of the Flock license plate reader program. The Cranston Board of Contract and Purchase approved the five-year contract extension for a total amount of $380,000.