ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - In a Facebook release from the Dougherty County Police Department, the department shares how it is turning to innovation to keep communities safer.

License plate recognition cameras, part of the Flock Safety system, have become a powerful tool in solving serious crimes—from violent offenses to theft—and connecting cases that might otherwise remain unsolved.

Since 2024, the camera network has proven its value, helping investigators identify suspect vehicles, track movement patterns and piece together evidence in cases involving some of the most serious crimes.

In 2024, the Flock Safety system helped solve:

• 1 felony murder
• 6 aggravated assaults involving firearms
• 1 armed robbery and aggravated assault
• 1 aggravated child molestation
• 1 kidnapping
• 1 aggravated stalking case
• 3 burglaries
• 2 motor vehicle or cargo thefts
• 3 felony thefts

In 2025, the system assisted in solving:

• 5 aggravated assaults involving firearms
• 3 armed robberies and aggravated assaults
• 5 burglaries
• 3 motor vehicle thefts
• 2 felony shoplifting rings (clearing multiple related cases)

In 2026, the system will have already helped solve:

The camera system has also helped neighboring law enforcement agencies, including the Albany PD, solve multiple crimes through shared information and collaborative efforts. This inter-agency cooperation demonstrates how modern technology can strengthen regional crime-fighting efforts.

The Patrol Division uses the technology during routine traffic enforcement, with impressive results. These efforts have led to:

• Arrests of wanted individuals
• Recovery of stolen property
• Seizure of illegal items
• Issuance of traffic citations

Law enforcement officials say the Flock Safety system offers several critical advantages:

• Faster Response Times – Officers can respond more quickly to developing situations
• Information Sharing – Agencies can collaborate more effectively across jurisdictions
• Preventive Power – The system helps focus resources on preventing crime before it happens

As communities continue to face public safety challenges, the Dougherty County PD is demonstrating how thoughtful adoption of technology—paired with dedicated officers and inter-agency cooperation—can make a real difference in solving crimes and keeping residents safer.

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