The Lead Off
- At least two Flock license plate reader cameras were vandalized in Goshen, according to city officials and witnesses
- The cameras, located near Reliance Road, were reportedly cut from their bases and found lying on the ground
- Goshen police have opened an investigation and say those responsible could face criminal charges
GOSHEN, IND. (WOWO) Goshen police are investigating after at least two automated license plate reader cameras were vandalized and cut down in separate locations near Reliance Road.
Officials said the cameras, part of the Flock Safety system used by law enforcement agencies to help investigate crimes and identify vehicles, were discovered damaged earlier this week. Witnesses reported seeing the devices lying on the ground, including one that had fallen across a sidewalk.
Cameras found cut from their bases
Residents near one of the damaged camera locations said the device appeared to have been intentionally cut down according to WSBT.
“This camera’s been out here on my front yard for several years and I understand what it does. Yesterday morning I come out and it’s laying across the side of the walk on the ground and it looks like somebody cut it off with a hacksaw and just laid it there,” said resident Carl Vangilst.
According to reports, the two damaged cameras were located less than a mile apart from one another.
Witnesses who discovered the cameras said their immediate concern was ensuring the equipment was removed from the sidewalk and preserved as evidence.
Debate surrounding camera program
Flock cameras function as automated license plate readers and are used by law enforcement agencies across the country to assist with criminal investigations and crime prevention efforts.
Their use has generated debate in some communities, with supporters citing public safety benefits and critics raising privacy concerns.
“I knew, I pretty much knew immediately that somebody must be mad right because that’s not a usual circumstance. And so there’s a lot of controversy I think lately on Facebook about flock cameras,” said Don Riegsecker, who represents Goshen City Council District 1.
Police reports filed
Authorities said police reports have been filed regarding both incidents.
The exact charges that could result from the vandalism remain unclear, though officials indicated penalties could range from misdemeanor offenses to potential felony charges depending on the circumstances and damage involved.
“And so, I just wanted to make sure that number one, that we could get the cameras preserved or to safety and that they were out of the way because that one was across the sidewalk,” Riegsecker said.
Officials urge public to report information
City leaders condemned the destruction of the equipment and encouraged residents to report suspicious activity.
“It’s just disappointing that these things happen. You know, it’s like people get mad about different topics and it’s kind of part of life these days. And there’s no sense in being destructive to try and get your point across,” Riegsecker said.
Officials are asking anyone who witnessed the vandalism or has information related to the incidents to contact law enforcement.
Next steps
The investigation remains active. The Goshen Police Department says detectives are working to identify those responsible and indicated arrests are expected if suspects are located. Authorities have not announced any arrests or identified any suspects as of Thursday.
The Takeaway
Multiple cameras damaged
At least two Flock automated license plate reader cameras were reportedly cut down and damaged in separate incidents near Reliance Road in Goshen.
Investigation underway
Police reports have been filed, and authorities are investigating whether criminal charges ranging from misdemeanors to felonies may apply.
Public assistance requested
Officials are encouraging residents to report any information that could assist investigators as police work to identify those responsible for the vandalism.
