Porter County Prosecutor Gary Germann acknowledged an error in not initially appointing a special prosecutor to examine the case of a sheriff’s deputy who misused the Flock camera system. The deputy used the License Plate Reader System improperly on three occasions. Germann initially decided not to pursue criminal charges but later chose to have the matter investigated independently.
Germann stated, “While we can all agree that law enforcement’s actions in this case were improper, I now believe the issue of whether those improper actions rise to the level of criminal conduct be evaluated by another prosecutor.” This announcement followed growing scrutiny of the Flock License Plate Reader system over privacy concerns.
Chesterton Police Chief Tim Richardson informed about a separate incident where another officer misused the system, leading to suspension and resignation. Portage Mayor Austin Bonta mentioned on Facebook that a meeting is scheduled to discuss the system’s use and policies.
Law enforcement officials including Germann, Richardson, and Sheriff Jeff Balon emphasized the importance of using the cameras appropriately. Balon noted that while License Plate Readers are valuable for crime fighting, misuse will lead to accountability.
Balon expressed support for Germann’s decision to appoint a special prosecutor, stating, “I will provide any and all information to the special prosecutor that is requested within the scope of the law.” Germann’s decision aims to assure the public that his office’s relationships do not influence his choices.
Jacob Taulman, the Jasper County prosecutor, was appointed as the special prosecutor by Judge Rebecca Buitendorp. Germann admitted it was a mistake not to appoint a special prosecutor from the start, acknowledging community displeasure over his initial choice.
Details about the misuse surfaced from a citizen’s complaint about inappropriate license plate searches. Balon explained that an internal investigation confirmed the officer’s policy violation. Subsequent disciplinary actions included demotion and suspension without pay, along with removal of Flock system privileges.
Comparing the case with another in Jackson County, Germann pointed out the differences. In Jackson County, a deputy misused the system over 2,000 times for deceptive purposes.
After discovering the misuse, Balon updated the department’s policy, incorporating stronger safeguards for using the Flock system. A case number and reason for each search are now necessary, and suspicious searches are flagged by an AI-powered audit system for departmental review.