The Indicator from Planet Money · Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Flock cameras cost approximately $3,000 per year per unit for police departments, with Fargo, North Dakota spending about $130,000 annually. While Scott Morgas's research indicates a modest reduction in car thefts, he points out that the cameras are a 'patchwork' and not a comprehensive solution to crime, which is a complex issue.
“For example, each Flock camera costs around $3,000 per year for a police department to operate.”
“Fargo, North Dakota spends about $130,000 per year on its Flock system.”
“They are tools, not magic bullets.”