Columbus suspends 66 Flock cameras after officer misuses license plate reader

4 September 2026.

Columbus officials covered Flock Safety license plate reader cameras at 66 locations on Friday after investigating allegations that a police officer misused the system. Officer Melvin Tellis, assigned to Columbus City Council's security detail, is accused of running hundreds of searches on a license plate unrelated to law enforcement purposes. Mayor Andrew Ginther ordered the pause and called for an independent audit to determine whether misuse extends beyond the single officer. Tellis has been relieved of duty pending investigation.

The city had previously cited the camera network's success in locating missing persons and apprehending suspects in violent crime cases. City Council President Pro Tem Rob Dorans indicated the incident highlights the need for ongoing discussion about technology safeguards. Columbus City Council plans to consider additional oversight measures for the system.

Community advocacy group People's Justice Project characterized the pause as a positive step but stated it will continue campaigning against contract renewal when the agreement expires later in 2026. The organization frames its position around concerns about surveillance versus safety.

The city has not announced a timeline for completing the investigation and audit or for determining the program's future status. Readers can check whether their own city has implemented independent audits or oversight procedures for license plate reader systems.

Read the original reporting: WSYX.

Related record: Columbus, Ohio in the jurisdictions directory.