Indianapolis — The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) removed 45‑year‑old Officer Jonathan Schultz from active duty and revoked his access to the department’s Flock license‑plate camera system after an internal audit revealed irregular usage. The audit, conducted earlier this year, flagged multiple instances where Schultz accessed the system in ways that did not align with department policy.
Allegations of stalking
According to local news outlet FOX59/CBS4, a woman who spoke with reporter Angela Ganote said Schultz followed her for months, using the Flock cameras to monitor her movements. The woman’s identity was not disclosed, but she described a pattern of surveillance that she believes was intended to intimidate her.
Legal action underway
Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears is expected to release further details at a press conference scheduled for 2 p.m. on Wednesday. The announcement will be streamed on the department’s website. Prosecutors have indicated that they are pursuing criminal charges related to the alleged misuse of the camera system, though the specific statutes have not yet been disclosed.
Department response
Chief Tanya Terry, who oversees IMPD operations, recommended that Schultz be terminated from the force. The recommendation was forwarded to the department’s Merit Board, which will review the case and determine the final employment outcome. In the meantime, Schultz’s police powers have been suspended, and he no longer has access to the Flock system while the investigation continues.
Background on the Flock system
Flock cameras are a law‑enforcement tool that automatically captures license‑plate data from vehicles traveling on public roads. The system is intended to aid investigations, locate stolen vehicles, and support traffic‑safety initiatives. IMPD’s internal policies require that officers use the system only for legitimate law‑enforcement purposes and that any access be logged and reviewed.
Internal audit findings
The audit that triggered Schultz’s suspension uncovered a pattern of “irregular use” of the Flock system. While the audit report did not name specific incidents, it highlighted that the officer accessed the database outside of standard investigative procedures. Following the audit, IMPD placed Schultz on administrative leave and began the process of revoking his system privileges.
Community reaction
Local community leaders have expressed concern over the alleged abuse of surveillance technology. “When tools meant to protect the public are misused, it erodes trust in our police department,” said Indianapolis City Council member Maria Hernandez. “We expect a thorough and transparent investigation, and we support any steps that ensure accountability.”
Next steps
The Merit Board’s decision on Schultz’s employment status is expected within the next few weeks. Meanwhile, IMPD has pledged to review its policies surrounding the Flock system to prevent future misuse. Residents are encouraged to contact the department’s civilian oversight office with any concerns about police conduct.
For ongoing updates, readers can follow the live stream of Prosecutor Mears’ briefing on the IMPD website.
Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.
