COLUMBUS, Ohio — A Franklin County Sheriff’s deputy has been suspended and reassigned following an internal audit into the improper use of the agency’s Flock camera system, Sheriff Dallas Baldwin announced in a media release.
The proactive review was initiated by Sheriff Baldwin after reports emerged of license plate reader technology being misused at other law enforcement agencies across the country.
During the audit, investigators discovered that Deputy Robert Tischler accessed the Flock Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) system in a manner inconsistent with his official duties and responsibilities.
As a result of the investigation, Tischler received a 30-day suspension without pay. He will also be reassigned from patrol duties to the Corrections Division and will no longer have access to the Flock camera system.
“We have a responsibility to ensure that the technology entrusted to this Office is used appropriately, responsibly, and solely for legitimate law enforcement purposes,” Sheriff Baldwin said. “Maintaining the public’s trust and keeping our community safe is my top priority.”
In response to the audit’s findings, Sheriff Baldwin ordered administrative changes across the agency. Each division has now designated a major to oversee access to ALPR data systems, strictly regulate who is authorized to use the technology, and conduct regular ongoing audits.
