Former Polk County Officer Charged with Misusing License Plate Reader System
Investigation into Misuse of Flock Safety System
Tracey Royston, a 51-year-old former officer with the Polk County Police Department, has been arrested and charged with four misdemeanor counts related to the misuse of a license plate reader system. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) announced the charges following an inquiry initiated by the Polk County Police on July 31, 2026.
Details of the Allegations
Royston, who previously served on the Northwest Georgia Drug Task Force managed by the GBI, allegedly accessed the Cedartown Police Department's Flock Safety System multiple times for non-law enforcement purposes between 2024 and 2025. This misuse of the system raised concerns that prompted the investigation.
On August 7, 2026, Royston was taken into custody and subsequently booked into the Polk County Jail. The GBI is continuing its investigation, and the case will be forwarded to the Tallapoosa Judicial Circuit District Attorney's Office for potential prosecution once the investigation concludes.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information regarding this case to reach out to the GBI through their phone line, online portal, or the See Something, Send Something app.
The ongoing investigation highlights the importance of accountability in law enforcement, particularly regarding the use of technology designed for public safety.
