TIFTON, Ga. (WALB) — The Tift County deputy who was demoted after an internal investigation into the misuse of the sheriff’s office’s Flock camera system has now been identified.

Dallas Hancock was identified as the deputy in a statement provided by Tift County Attorney Jennifer Herzog.

The new information comes after WALB first reported that a deputy had been demoted from a recent promotion and had his access to sensitive, confidential data systems revoked. At the time, the sheriff’s office had not identified the deputy or specified what personal information he had searched.

According to the sheriff’s office, a data system audit uncovered discrepancies in the Flock system involving Hancock. An internal investigation was then launched.

Sheriff’s office says deputy searched his own tag numerous times

The investigation found that Hancock used the Flock database to search his own personal automobile tag on numerous occasions, according to the sheriff’s office.

The sheriff’s office said investigators found no evidence Hancock had accessed anyone else’s data and no evidence that any information he accessed was used improperly.

However, leadership determined that Hancock’s use of the system was improper and demoted him.

The sheriff’s office also clarified that Hancock’s access to his own personal data did not violate Georgia law.

Sheriff Gene Scarbrough previously said an audit uncovered discrepancies in the agency’s Flock system. Following the investigation, Scarbrough’s administration issued a memo emphasizing a “zero-tolerance” policy for conduct that could damage the community’s trust.

Flock misuse under scrutiny

The Tift County case comes amid a broader debate over the use and oversight of automated license plate reader technology.

WALB recently spoke with Georgia State Sen. John Albers about concerns surrounding Flock cameras following misuse cases involving law enforcement officers. Albers said a task force involving the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association and Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police is discussing additional safeguards, including permission levels, additional training and potentially requiring a second person to approve searches.

WALB will continue to follow developments surrounding the use of Flock cameras across South Georgia.

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