Former Deputy Faces Probe Over After‑Hours Flock System Use

Residents and members of the "I Am Oakland County" group voiced strong frustration during a county board meeting after learning that a former deputy may have misused the Flock Safety system. The gathering saw calls for immediate reforms and tighter controls on who can reach sensitive data. One speaker, Tracee Guibord, said she felt frustrated and could not believe any official supports the Flock cameras. Another resident, Pete Trzos, echoed the concern, demanding that the county reconsider its surveillance tools. The group also urged a full audit of all former employees to ensure they no longer have access to county technology.

The Oakland County Sheriff's Office confirmed it is investigating a former deputy accused of improperly accessing the Flock Safety platform after leaving the department. Investigators indicated that criminal charges could follow if the allegations are proven. The probe focuses on the period after the individual’s employment ended, highlighting a breach of policy. The sheriff’s office stressed that the alleged unauthorized access occurred when the person was no longer employed by the county in any capacity.

Details about what data was viewed or how the system was misused have not been released, leaving the public in the dark. Retired police captain Mario Bastianelli, now a chief administrative officer, suggested the investigation will likely be extensive. He explained that detectives will need to trace access times, identify any witnesses, and examine how the information was used. Bastianelli added that understanding the full scope will require careful review of logs and interviews.

The sheriff's office stated it cannot provide additional information at this time, citing the ongoing nature of the case. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the county commissioners' public information office said they have received inquiries about possibly pausing or ending the use of Flock cameras in Oakland County. No immediate decision has been announced, and the office declined to comment further until the investigation reaches a conclusion.