Indianapolis Council to consider Flock camera guardrails

The Indianapolis City-County Council is considering new regulations for the city’s Flock automated license plate reader system following a proposed $1.9 billion budget for 2027. While the budget includes a $400 million allocation for the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), including funding for surveillance technology, Council President Maggie Lewis stated that the council intends to implement “guardrails” for the camera system after the budget vote.

The push for oversight follows recent allegations of officer misconduct. Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears recently charged five IMPD officers with crimes including stalking and fraud, alleging they used the Flock system to track romantic partners and spouses. Internal audits by the IMPD also identified irregular use of the technology.

Despite public testimony expressing concerns over privacy and “abuse of power,” Lewis defended the utility of the technology, noting its role in a recent homicide investigation involving a 9-year-old child. The 2027 budget also includes $335 million for public works and $72 million for housing and social services.