Resident questions Flock Safety cameras; police say system is limited to license-plate readers

Derek Fudge, a first-time speaker at the council meeting, asked why a network of Flock Safety cameras was installed without broader public notice and what the cameras capture and how they are funded. He said he believed the cameras can scan license plates and vehicle details and expressed privacy concerns about alleged audio capture and facial scanning. "If they are really for protect or for our safety and protection, why aren't they placed where they would actually be needed?" he asked, noting placements near commercial centers and asking how the program is being paid for.

Police Chief Joe Grimes responded on the record that Brownsburg has an LPR system and clarified the department's use and limits. He said the town installed an initial set of cameras in 2023 and now operates 16 LPR units. "These are only license plate readers," Grimes said, adding the department does not have gunshot-detection or audio-capture devices and that the cameras "do not capture a person's face" but rather license-plate imagery; footage is retained for 30 days and accessed only in relation to reported criminal offenses. Grimes said the system was initially funded with forfeiture funds and later with local income-tax (LIT) distributions from the county and that the department has used the system to develop investigative leads in homicide, robbery and stolen-vehicle cases.

The chief offered to meet with Mr. Fudge for follow-up and to provide additional documentation. The exchange clarified the system's stated scope and funding but left open community questions about broader policy and placement criteria.