Guthrie ends contract to use Flock cameras
GUTHRIE, Okla. (KFOR) — Guthrie Police are no longer using a crime-fighting tool after funding meant for two years has run dry, according to a report by the Guthrie News Page.
Guthrie Police officers said the Flock cameras have been instrumental in helping them solve cases. They're sad to see them go.
'That was a bit heartbreaking because it was such an effective and efficient tool for us,' said Sgt. Anthony Gibbs.
Two years ago, Guthrie Police secured funding from the U.S. Department of Justice to use Flock cameras for two years.
The cameras snap pictures of cars and their license plates as they drive by. They often give police leads on cases.
'We had the ability though to go through and to search those photographic records for certain identifying factors,' said Sgt. Gibbs.
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In 2023, it helped Guthrie Police make an arrest after suspects stole a car.
'The driver stated that he had taken the vehicle because his bicycle was broken,' said Gibbs, back in 2023.
It also helped them arrest a drive who stole a car and led them on a high speed chase before crashing out.
The funding to use the cameras was only for two years. Sgt. Gibbs said typically, with programs like theses, it's up to the agency to decide if they can fund the cameras going forward.
The city manage said to continue using them, it would cost the city $35,000 a year. The city council ultimately decided not to renew the contract due to, 'a lack of local funding and having to prioritize projects.'
'We would just need to look for an alternate funding source,' said Gibbs.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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