Prosecutor Initiates Special Investigation into Flock System Misuse

Porter County Prosecutor Gary Germann has admitted to a mistake and is now calling for a special prosecutor to examine the case of a sheriff’s deputy who misused the Flock camera system. His decision aims to avoid the appearance of impropriety. Germann had previously announced that the deputy, who misused the License Plate Reader System three times, would not face criminal charges. He has reconsidered, deciding the matter warrants an external investigation.

“While law enforcement’s actions in this case were improper, the issue of whether these actions rise to criminal conduct should be evaluated by another prosecutor,” Germann stated to the Post-Tribune.

The misuse of the Flock License Plate Reader system is under increased scrutiny due to privacy concerns. Chesterton Police Chief Tim Richardson revealed that an officer resigned after misusing the system, prompting an investigation. Portage Mayor Austin Bonta mentioned that the city’s contract with Flock ends this year and plans a presentation on the system’s usage.

Law enforcement officials, including Germann, Richardson, and Porter County Sheriff Jeff Balon, agree that the cameras are valuable when used properly. However, they are not for private use. Balon stated that misuse of law enforcement tools would lead to accountability.

Balon supported Germann’s decision for a special investigation, asserting his willingness to cooperate with the special prosecutor. Germann emphasized the special review would assure the public his decision wasn’t influenced by relationships with the Porter County Sheriff’s Department.

Appointed on Thursday, Jasper County prosecutor Jacob Taulman will serve as special prosecutor. Germann acknowledged that his initial decision displeased the community and apologized for not considering external evaluation sooner.

In August, Balon disclosed misuse of the Flock system by an officer, who faced disciplinary actions including demotion, suspension without pay, and ethics training. Germann noted the officer’s actions, though improper, weren’t criminal. The officer logged into the system three times over several months.

“While a relatively minor violation, the conduct of the officer was still a mistake,” Germann had said.

Balon confirmed that a citizen’s complaint led to the revelation that an officer violated department policy using the Flock system. The sheriff department’s internal affairs investigation verified wrongdoing, leading to policy enhancements. Balon stated new safeguards include requiring a case number for all searches and utilizing Flock’s Audit system to flag suspicious searches for review.

These additional measures strengthen oversight and accountability, ensuring proper use of the Flock system in the future.