Georgia Deputy Fired, Arrested for Misusing Flock License Plate Camera System

CLARKESVILLE, Ga. – A Habersham County Sheriff’s Office deputy has been fired and arrested after an internal audit found he allegedly used the agency’s Flock Safety license plate camera system for personal reasons.

The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday that former Deputy Christian Ryan Brewer was terminated following an internal investigation into his use of the department’s license plate reader database.

According to the sheriff’s office, an internal audit revealed Brewer accessed the Flock camera system and used retained license plate data for personal, non-law enforcement purposes.

Investigators determined the incident involved an individual with whom Brewer had a personal relationship at the time. The sheriff’s office said the misuse was an isolated incident.

Following the investigation, Brewer was arrested and booked into the Habersham County Detention Center on one count of felony Violation of Oath of Office and two misdemeanor counts of Misuse of License Plate Data.

Authorities said the investigation remains active. Once completed, the case will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for review and possible prosecution.

Brewer began his employment with the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office on May 6, 2024.

“The people of Habersham County trust us with authority and access to sensitive information. This trust is earned every day and can be lost in a single decision,” Sheriff Robin Krockum said in a statement. “Any misuse of our authority or the tools provided to our deputies is a betrayal of that trust. Although this was an isolated incident, I will not tolerate misconduct. We will hold our own accountable because the public we serve deserves no less.”

The sheriff’s office emphasized that the Flock Safety camera network is designed to help law enforcement investigate major crimes, recover stolen vehicles and locate missing or endangered people. The system captures license plates and vehicle characteristics but does not store personal information about vehicle owners. Data is retained for 30 days before being automatically deleted.

Officials said access to the system is strictly limited to legitimate law enforcement purposes and authorized criminal investigations.

Sheriff Krockum added that despite the alleged misconduct, the Flock camera system remains a valuable investigative tool that has helped locate missing children and adults, recover stolen vehicles and save lives.

The investigation remains ongoing.