Flock Cameras in Granville County: Safety Tool or Surveillance Concern? What We Know and What Comes Next

Community members in Granville County are asking questions about the cameras popping up along roadways. Some see them as a step in the right direction towards a safer community, while others see them as a step too far and a violation of privacy. 

Now, with a town hall scheduled for next week, community members have an opportunity to voice their concerns before any expansion is approved. Here's what you need to know about what these cameras are and how they are used in Granville County. 

What Are Flock Cameras?

Flock cameras are automated license plate reader systems created by Flock Safety. 

• These cameras capture images of vehicles in public view, including license plates, color, make, and model. 
• They do not use facial recognition and are designed to focus on vehicles, not people. 
• Data is typically stored for about 30 days before being deleted.

People who support them say this will help the local police solve crimes. Detractors argue they will violate people’s privacy and may give inaccurate information. 

Who Actually Owns the Cameras in Granville County?

The biggest question many are asking has been about ownership and control.

In a July 10, 2026 interview conducted by local community member Jerry Ray, Granville County Sheriff Robert Fountain explained that “All the Flock cameras in the county of Granville are maintained by Creedmoor, Oxford, or Butner,” Fountain said. “The sheriff’s office doesn’t have any… as of this moment.”

This means none of the cameras you see are county-owned. They belong to the towns. 

Fountain clarified that cameras can be placed outside city limits if landowners give permission. 

How the System Works Across Counties

Flock cameras don't operate alone. Agencies have agreements that allow them to request information from each other.

“We can ask, ‘Did you see this vehicle?’” said Fountain, giving an example of how agencies work together when investigating crimes.

This type of collaboration can allow law enforcement to track vehicles connected to incidents like stolen cars, missing persons, or active investigations. 

A Pause for a Town Hall

The Ledger News recently reported that there have already been discussions about expanding the use of these cameras. But now that conversation is on pause. 

Sheriff Fountain said he intentionally delayed it to allow for public input. “What does it say about me as a leader not listening to my community?” 

As a result, a town hall meeting has been scheduled for July 20 at 6:00 PM at the Granville County Expo Center to give the community a chance to speak up before any decisions are made.

The goal of the meeting, he said, is to bring people together where “public perception and public safety intersect” and allow residents to shape the decision before any countywide system is approved.