Franklin County, Ohio – The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office announced that Deputy Robert Tischler has been placed on unpaid leave for 30 days after an internal review found he accessed the county’s Flock automated license‑plate‑reader cameras in a manner inconsistent with his authorized duties.
Administrative action and reassignment
Following the suspension, Deputy Tischler will be reassigned from patrol duties to the Corrections Division, and his access to the Flock system will be permanently removed. Sheriff Dallas Baldwin said the decision reflects the office’s commitment to responsible use of law‑enforcement technology.
Sheriff’s emphasis on trust and proper use
“We have a responsibility to ensure that the technology entrusted to this Office is used appropriately, responsibly, and solely for legitimate law‑enforcement purposes,” Baldwin said. “Maintaining the public’s trust and keeping our community safe is my top priority. Law‑enforcement technology, such as the Flock camera system, is an important investigative tool and must be used only for investigative purposes.”
Baldwin added that each division has been directed to closely monitor access to automated license‑plate‑reader systems, documenting who uses them and when. The sheriff’s office also clarified that it does not have a contract with Flock for stationary cameras and has never operated such devices.
Statewide implications
Attorney General Andy Wilson, speaking to WBNS last month, expressed support for legislation that would make the misuse of license‑plate‑reader systems a felony. Wilson praised the cameras as a valuable tool for public safety while urging stronger penalties for any abuse.
Community response
Local residents and community leaders have voiced concern that any misuse of surveillance technology erodes trust between law‑enforcement and the neighborhoods they serve. The sheriff’s swift disciplinary action is being presented as a reassurance that the office will hold its deputies accountable and protect citizens’ privacy.
While the incident has prompted some jurisdictions to pause or end use of Flock cameras, Franklin County officials say the pause is temporary while policies are tightened. The department plans to review its technology‑use protocols and provide additional training to ensure compliance with both legal standards and community expectations.
Looking ahead
The sheriff’s office will continue its internal review and expects to release a full report on the incident in the coming weeks. In the meantime, Deputy Tischler remains on unpaid leave, and the department is reinforcing its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the safety of Franklin County’s families.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
