Brick man charged after Flock camera is cut down

A 31-year-old Brick man, Andrew Wardell, has been charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief after allegedly helping to cut down a pole holding a Flock license plate-reading camera. The incident occurred on July 8 at an Exxon station on Drum Point Road.

Brick Township police reported that the camera remained operational following the incident. Authorities clarified that Flock cameras are automated license plate readers used to provide investigative leads, such as locating stolen vehicles or assisting in burglary and theft investigations. The department emphasized that these cameras do not issue tickets, conduct traffic stops, or make arrests, but are intended to help establish timelines and patterns during criminal investigations.