Newton County

Covington cop fired after investigation into Flock technology system

COVINGTON GEORGIA POLICE DEPT

COVINGTON, Ga. — A metro Atlanta police officer has been fired and arrested after an internal audit uncovered what officials say is an unusually high level of activity involving a law enforcement technology system.

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The Covington Police Department said a recent audit of officer technology usage revealed an “irregularly high pattern” of activity linked to Officer Michael Canty.

The department said the findings prompted an interview with Canty, who was then placed on administrative leave while a more extensive investigation was conducted.

Police said the investigation included a full audit of technology usage. At the end of that review, the department terminated Canty’s employment.

Following his termination, the Covington Police Department notified the Georgia Bureau of Investigation of its findings. The GBI later arrested Canty.

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Authorities have not yet released additional details about the specific allegations or charges tied to the case. The technology system involved was Flock, a license plate reader and vehicle intelligence platform used by law enforcement agencies.

In a statement, the Covington Police Department said it “will not tolerate misuse of technology and the violation of public trust by any of our employees.”

“The Covington Police Department will continue to diligently hold our officers to the highest standards of serving and protecting our community,” the department said.

The GBI investigation remains ongoing.

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