Oakland already seeing results as it deploys more ‘Flock’ cameras

OAKLAND, Calif. ( KRON ) — In Oakland, more automated license plate readers are to be installed across the city. The cameras are part of the Oakland Police Department's ongoing efforts to fight crime.

On Thursday, Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell explained how Flock security cameras had been installed across the city. The department shared arrests that have been made on several violent crimes this month by gathering video surveillance that identified suspect vehicles.

"We solved a shooting from Sept. 12 of this year," said Lt. Omar Daza Quiroz with OPD. "A suspect shot at 8501 International Boulevard."

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The cameras, police said, also helped identify suspect vehicles in a robbery and road rage incident. OPD placed the cameras in previously identified "hot spots."

It also helps if other Bay Area cities have the same system.

"If we know the suspect vehicle we can input that into Flock and outside agencies that have access to Flock will be alerted if it goes into their system," said Daza-Quiroz.

Oakland's privacy advisory commission approved to have the cameras installed last year. OPD holds onto the footage for 30 days to investigate crimes. The technology will not capture people's faces, which was a concern of civil liberties groups.

The city's goal is to have about 300 flock cameras installed by late October or early November.