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Athens-Clarke County Police officer fired for misusing Flock camera

File - Flock camera in Athens, Georgia.
McClain Baxley
/
WUGA
File - Flock camera in Athens, Georgia.

An Athens-Clarke County Police officer has been fired for misuse of a Flock camera.

The ACCPD states that an officer was informed that another officer may have misused the automatic license plate reader. An internal investigation revealed that Officer Tyler Vaughn used the Flock system to search his ex-girlfriend’s license plate several times over a week in 2025. Chief Jerry Salters took immediate steps to terminate Vaughn.

“I am deeply disappointed by Officer Vaughn’s actions,” according to Chief Salters. “I do not take this incident lightly. The misuse of our ALPR system is a serious violation of the trust placed in our officers, and we will hold those who violate this department's policies and standards accountable. I also want to recognize the officer who reported this misconduct. It demonstrates the integrity and professionalism we expect from the men and women of ACCPD. Our officers have a responsibility to hold themselves and one another accountable, and I am proud of those who uphold that responsibility.”

The department has implemented procedures to improve oversight of the Flock system and has restricted the ability to conduct search to personnel at the rank of supervisor and above.

Additionally, department policy strictly prohibits the use of its system for personal or non-official law enforcement purposes.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is conducting a probe into the incident.

In August, civilian employee Nick Barker was fired from the department for using the Flock system to search his ex-wife’s license plates multiple times in 2025.

Alexia Ridley joined WUGA as Television and Radio News Anchor and Reporter in 2013. When WUGA TV concluded operations, she became the primary Reporter for WUGA Radio. Alexia came to Athens from Macon where she served as the News Director and show host for WGXA TV. She's a career journalist and Savannah native hailing from the University of Michigan. However, Alexia considers herself an honorary UGA DAWG!
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