Two more Georgia deputies are off the force and behind bars after investigators say they abused a powerful surveillance tool that was supposed to keep communities safe, not track people for personal reasons. Lieutenant Chris Bryant and Sergeant Mike Creeden were arrested after an internal audit inside the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office uncovered suspicious use of a license plate reader database. Both now face a felony charge for violating their oath of office and a misdemeanor for improperly accessing and retaining license plate data.
At the center of this case are Flock license plate reader cameras, a network of automated cameras widely deployed across the country that captures and stores vehicle information in real time. In plain English, these cameras can log where a vehicle was seen, when it was there, and how often it shows up in certain areas. While marketed as a crime-fighting tool to locate stolen cars or suspects, the same system can be misused if proper safeguards are not followed.
This isn’t an isolated case. Earlier in June, a third deputy was arrested for similar offenses, which triggered a deeper internal audit by the department’s Real-Time Intelligence Division. Investigators found what they described as “anomalies,” meaning unusual or unauthorized searches in the system by people who were given access but allegedly crossed legal boundaries.
Sheriff Frank Reynolds said the community expects professionalism and accountability, emphasizing that these tools must only be used for legitimate law enforcement work. Critics say this is exactly what happens when powerful surveillance systems expand without strict oversight, while others argue the answer is enforcing the rules, not eliminating the tools.
Both former deputies have been fired and are being held in custody with bond set at just over $3,800 each. Officials have not yet explained the personal motives behind the misuse, but the case is already fueling broader concerns about how easily surveillance meant for “safety” can be turned in the wrong direction.
Sources: Facebook Florida Hillbilly | FOX 5 Atlanta | Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office
