Winona Police Flock Cameras Cut Down, Stolen
Winona (trfnews.i234.me) — All eight Flock cameras operated by Winona police were cut down and stolen on Aug. 1.
Police said the thefts appear coordinated. A patrol officer noticed the cameras had stopped sending alerts for about 24 hours.
Officers then checked each camera location. They found the devices missing and the poles left behind.
Two more Flock cameras were also stolen from the Mississippi River Bridge. Those cameras belong to Buffalo County.
Winona Faces Estimated $24,000 Loss
Each Winona camera is valued at about $3,000. The eight stolen city cameras represent an estimated $24,000 loss.
The Buffalo County cameras are separate from that Winona estimate.
The Winona cameras stood near major roads entering and leaving the city.
Two cameras were near Highway 61 and Bundy Boulevard. Two more were near Highway 43 and Homer Road.
Another pair was near Highway 14 and Knapp Valley Drive. The final pair was near Highway 61 and Highway 14.
How Flock Cameras Are Used
Flock Safety cameras are automated license plate readers. They capture plate images and basic details about passing vehicles.
The system can record a vehicle’s make, model and color. Police use that information during criminal investigations.
Departments may use the cameras in hit-and-run cases. They can also help locate missing people or wanted vehicles.
Winona police said camera data belongs to the department. The department says that data is permanently deleted after 30 days.
License Plate Readers Draw Debate
The theft comes amid wider debate over automated license plate readers.
Civil liberties groups have raised concerns about mass surveillance. Critics also question how plate data may be shared outside local agencies.
Supporters say the cameras can give investigators fast leads. They also say the system can help officers find vehicles connected to crimes.
Investigation Remains Active
No suspects have been identified in the Winona thefts.
The investigation remains active. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Winona Police Department.
Residents can find local government information through the City of Winona website.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
Copyright 2026 TRF News. All rights reserved.
