Tennessee congressional hopeful accused of shooting license plate cameras
An independent congressional candidate in Tennessee has been charged with four felony counts of vandalism after allegedly shooting four automated licence plate reader (ALPR) cameras, including at least one made by Flock, over a nine-day period in July 2026. The case is notable both because the suspect is running for federal office and because it forms part of a wider pattern of vandalism, legal challenges and misuse scandals dogging Flock's cameras across the United States.
Adam Lee Heimerman, 37, allegedly targeted three cameras in Blount County and one in Maryville between 14 and 22 July, reportedly reaching one camera via the grounds of a place of worship during a service. He is a candidate for Tennessee's 2nd Congressional District in the 3 November 2026 election, competing against Republican incumbent Tim Burchett, who has separately introduced a bill restricting federal use and funding of ALPR systems. The incident follows other attacks on Flock cameras nationwide, including arson in Georgia and California, alongside separate controversies over police misuse of the technology, such as officers allegedly using it to stalk former partners; Flock's cameras number an estimated 80,000 to 120,000 or more across the US.
- Tennessee House candidate charged with shooting four ALPR cameras
- One camera allegedly reached via a church during a service
- Part of wider US backlash against Flock surveillance cameras