Flock camera systems are being used more widely. Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle

A Baytown police officer is being investigated for potential misuse of the Flock license plate reader system.

Baytown Police Chief John Stringer on Friday announced the investigation via Facebook, where he said he authorized an internal affairs investigation for potential policy misconduct. He also said there will be a separate criminal investigation for potential criminal misconduct.

For the criminal investigation, Stringer said he has requested the help of the Harris County District Attorney's Office.


 The executive staff of the Baytown Police Department and I recognize our community's concerns for the protection and respect of individual privacy, as well as for police accountability,  Stringer said in the video.

The department has not identified the officer.

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 If these allegations are sustained, then the employee involved will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law and policy,  Stringer said.

Flock Safety is a public safety technology company, and its license plate reader cameras provide 24/7 monitoring for police departments, businesses and neighborhoods.


The company has been the subject of debate across the country and in Houston. The Harris County Commissioners Court voted in May to renew the county's contract with Flock Safety through June 2027, but Conroe residents voiced their opposition to the cameras at Conroe City Council last week.

 The Baytown Police Department has worked very hard to build trust and establish strong relationships in our community,  Stringer said.  I value those relationships. They're important to the Baytown Police Department. And we want you to know that we hold fast to the standards and trust that our community has given to us, and that they expect from us. 

The Baytown officer isn't the first in the Houston-area t

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