GBI investigates allegations of misuse of Albany surveillance cameras

ALBANY – The potential misuse by law enforcement officers of surveillance cameras in the city of Albany is under investigation, with one Albany Police Department officer having resigned as a result of the probe.

Albany City Manager Terrell Jacobs confirmed on Monday that the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was asked to conduct the investigation of potential misuse of Flock Safety cameras. Mayor Bo Dorough referred questions about the probe to the city manager when asked about it on Monday.

“Specifically, there is a situation that has developed through an audit or compliance (review),” Jacobs said. “Through the compliance (review), the audit, they found several incidents of situations that developed. That’s kind of how it all developed. The call was made to the GBI because it involved police officers. We wanted an outside agency to look at it.”

The police department operates more than 100 of the surveillance cameras used in the city. 

“We have audits of those to make sure they’re being used like they’re supposed to be used,” Jacobs said. “I’m glad those corrective measures take place. If people are using these for (purposes) other than what they’re supposed to be used for, we’ll hold them accountable.”

Albany Police Chief Michael Persley said on Monday that he cannot discuss an active investigation.

“Let us complete what we need to complete, then we’ll be able to get back to you,” he said.