During an internal review of the West Chicago Police Department’s use of the Flock automated license plate recognition system, the City identified information indicating that a police officer may have used the system for an unauthorized purpose between late 2024 and early 2025.
Upon becoming aware of the matter, the City took immediate steps to preserve relevant records and protect the integrity of the investigation. The officer has been placed on administrative leave pending further review. Administrative leave is a non-disciplinary measure and should not be interpreted as a finding of wrongdoing.
The City also immediately contacted the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office and requested that it independently investigate whether any criminal conduct occurred. The City is cooperating fully with that investigation.
Separate from the State’s Attorney’s investigation, the City will conduct an internal investigation to determine whether City or Police Department policies, procedures, or standards of conduct were violated and whether any employment-related action is warranted.
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.
With that in mind, the City continues to conduct a broader audit of the Police Department’s use of Flock and other investigative software and technology. This review includes the examination of system usage, access, auditing practices, policies, procedures, training, oversight, and safeguards. The City had recently implemented additional early-detection auditing tools and will continue to monitor evolving best practices, technology, and internal processes to identify opportunities to strengthen oversight and safeguards.
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.
Because this matter is being reviewed by the States Attorney’s Office and is an ongoing personnel matter, the City is limited in the information it can publicly release at this time. The City will provide additional information when appropriate and legally permissible.
