CHARLOTTE — An officer with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department faces charges after allegedly using a license plate reader system to track an individual.
The State Bureau of Investigation charged 25-year-old Seth Elliott with illegally accessing a government computer for non-law enforcement purposes.
According to the SBI, Elliott allegedly ran an unauthorized query of a North Carolina license plate registration.
While CMPD does not own the Flock camera system involved in the case, the department maintains access to cameras located in other jurisdictions to assist in criminal investigations.
Elliott has been placed on unpaid administrative leave from the department’s University Division. He has served with the department for two years.
The case involves the use of Flock technology, which utilizes license plate readers to monitor vehicle movements.
Rajeeb Garb, a professor at Emory University, noted that the system provides significant tracking capabilities that can be dangerous if used improperly. “The technology is terrible in the wrong hands,” Garb said.
Trevor Chandler, a representative with Flock, emphasized that the company does not tolerate the improper use of its equipment. “Any misuse of Flock’s tools is unacceptable,” Chandler said.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has used various forms of license plate readers for several years. Local motorists shared concerns regarding the potential for privacy violations by those with access to the data.
Scott Washington highlighted the risk of personal interference. “You can follow people home; you can tap into their personal life that’s not good,” Washington said.
Kaitlind Aflfeld noted that the department must maintain strict oversight of its tools. “So with great power comes great responsibility,” Aflfeld said.
Chief Estella Patterson released a statement condemning the alleged misuse of confidential data.
“Misusing law enforcement technology or accessing confidential information for non-law enforcement purposes is a betrayal of the public’s trust and a violation of everything this profession stands for,” Patterson said.
This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.
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