Mayor announces license plate reader cameras coming to city

Approved by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen at its April 6 meeting, the agreement includes the purchase, installation, maintenance, and training associated with an initial deployment of 10 cameras, partially funded through grant dollars.

“This is proof of the real steps we’re taking to build a safer, stronger, and smarter Vicksburg,” Thompson said. “We’re not just talking about public safety. We’re investing in it, and we’re giving our officers the tools they need to protect our community using some of the most advanced technology on the market.”

The Flock Safety system uses solar powered, LTE connected cameras installed in key locations along public rights of way without the need for traditional infrastructure. Using advanced machine learning technology, the cameras capture what is known as a “vehicle fingerprint,” identifying license plates along with vehicle characteristics such as make, model, and color.

When a vehicle connected to a crime or safety alert is detected, the system can notify law enforcement in real time,

allowing for faster response and more effective investigations. The platform also enables officers to quickly search vehicle data to generate leads, locate stolen vehicles, and identify suspects.

Importantly, the system is designed with privacy protections in place, capturing still images of vehicles in public areas and retaining data for a limited time for law enforcement purposes.

The partnership also includes professional services such as site assessments, installation, testing, and comprehensive training for the Vicksburg Police Department to ensure the technology is used effectively and responsibly from day one.

Flock Safety technology is currently used by thousands of law enforcement agencies and communities nationwide and has become a proven tool in modern policing strategies. Agencies across the country have credited the system with helping solve crimes faster and improving overall community public safety outcomes. A number of other Mississippi cities are also using Flock camera technology including Jackson, Greenville, Gulfport, Southaven, Ocean Springs, and Lucedale.

Vicksburg Police Chief Larry Burns said the technology will enhance the department’s ability to respond and investigate.

“This is a force multiplier for our officers,” Burns said. “Having access to real time alerts and searchable vehicle data allows us to act quickly and build stronger cases. This will lead to Vicksburg becoming a safer city.”

City officials said the cameras will be strategically placed on public rights of way to maximize coverage and effectiveness as part of a broader effort to combine strong policing with modern technology.

Mayor Thompson said the investment reflects a continued commitment to raising the standard across city services.

“We’re now putting advanced technology to work to deliver real results for our citizens,” Thompson said. “This is how we build a safer, stronger, and smarter Vicksburg while also making it harder to get away with committing crimes in our city.”