Cop Placed On Leave For Possible Flock Camera Misuse In West Chicago

WEST CHICAGO, IL — A West Chicago police officer has been put on administrative leave amid an investigation into whether they misused the city's Flock camera license plate reader system.

The officer's name was not made public and the DuPage County State's Attorney's Office is investigating the matter.

According to a news release from The West Chicago Police Department (WCPD), the officer "may have used the system for an unauthorized purpose between late 2024 and early 2025."

WCPD says they "took immediate steps to preserve relevant records and protect the integrity of the investigation" when they became aware of the possible Flock camera misuse.

In their news release, WCPD stated that the officer's administrative leave is not indicative of any wrongdoing, but that they will conduct their own investigation to determine if disciplinary action is warranted.

The department plans to audit the use of its Flock camera system and other investigative technology, the news release said.

The incident comes amid rising privacy concerns about Flock cameras. In Channahon, a police officer was recently placed on leave for possible Flock camera violations. A Will County Sheriff's Office deputy is also under investigation for possible policy violations.

"The City recognizes the broader public concern surrounding the use of automated license plate readers. These tools have provided important public safety benefits, but their use must be balanced with appropriate safeguards, clear policies, meaningful oversight, and accountability," WCPD's news release said.

It continued, "The City takes the responsible use of law enforcement technology and public safety resources seriously. Access to these systems carries a significant responsibility to ensure they are used only for authorized law enforcement purposes and in accordance with applicable laws and City and Police Department requirements."