Flock Cameras Vandalized as Debate Over License Plate Surveillance Grows

Police in Berne, Indiana, are investigating after a Flock license plate reader was vandalized and knocked down as communities across the country continue debating the technology.

The camera, located on State Road 218, was damaged and is no longer able to read license plates.

The incident is part of a growing number of cases involving vandalized Flock cameras. Police in the Toledo, Ohio, area recently investigated after a camera pole was cut down, the lens was spray-painted black and wiring was damaged. A Flock camera was also found floating in a park pond.

Oregon, Ohio, Assistant Police Chief Ryan Spangler said people are free to disagree with the technology, but damaging or destroying police equipment is not acceptable.

Other Flock cameras in Indiana have also been targeted.

The Adams County Sheriff's Office discovered two cameras damaged Tuesday morning. Officials said one camera's solar panel appeared to have been shattered by a gunshot, while other components appeared to have been burned.

In neighboring Wells County, the sheriff's office is investigating after two Flock cameras were also damaged.

Flock cameras use license plate recognition technology to help law enforcement track vehicles connected to investigations. Police say the cameras can be valuable tools for solving crimes.

Critics, however, argue that the expanding network creates an overly broad surveillance system and raises concerns about privacy and potential misuse.

The debate is playing out at the local and national levels. Fort Wayne's City Council is considering whether to extend its contract with Flock, while President Donald Trump was recently asked about the growing controversy surrounding license plate readers.

Trump said the technology was being studied and that his administration would have a position on it in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, police agencies continue investigating who damaged the cameras and whether the incidents are connected.

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