BRICK TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A Brick Township man has been charged after police say he intentionally cut down a Flock Safety automated license plate reader camera, prompting a month-long investigation by the department’s Detective Bureau.
In some circles online, he’s being hailed as a hero. In the eyes of the law, he’s a vandal.
According to the Brick Township Police Department, detectives arrested Andrew Wardell, 31, of Brick Township, on Wednesday following an investigation into the July 8 incident.
Police charged Wardell with fourth-degree Criminal Mischief in connection with damage to a Flock Safety camera located at 181 Drum Point Road, the site of an Exxon gas station.
Officers were initially dispatched to the location after receiving reports that the department’s automated license plate reader camera had been intentionally cut down.
Authorities did not disclose how investigators identified Wardell but said the arrest followed a lengthy investigation conducted by the Detective Bureau.
The department reminded the public that criminal charges are accusations and that Wardell is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
In announcing the arrest, Brick police also highlighted the role Flock Safety cameras play in criminal investigations and addressed what they described as common misconceptions about the technology.
According to the department, Flock cameras are automated license plate reader systems designed to assist officers by capturing vehicle information that can help identify suspect vehicles, recover stolen vehicles, investigate burglaries and thefts, establish timelines during investigations, and share investigative information across jurisdictional boundaries.
- Brick police charged a 31-year-old township resident with fourth-degree Criminal Mischief.
- The charge stems from the intentional destruction of a Flock Safety camera at 181 Drum Point Road.
- Police said the automated license plate reader system is used only as an investigative tool and does not issue traffic citations.
Police emphasized that the cameras do not issue traffic tickets, initiate traffic stops or independently determine whether a crime has occurred. Instead, officers use information collected by the system as one investigative lead alongside other evidence.
“We also remind residents that intentionally damaging or destroying police equipment is a criminal offense,” the department said while reaffirming its commitment to using technology “responsibly to prevent crime, investigate criminal activity, and keep our community safe.”
FAQ
Who was arrested?
Police identified the defendant as Andrew Wardell, 31, of Brick Township.
What is he accused of doing?
Authorities allege Wardell intentionally cut down a Brick Township Police Department Flock Safety camera located at an Exxon station on Drum Point Road.
What charge was filed?
Wardell was charged with fourth-degree Criminal Mischief.
What is a Flock Safety camera?
Flock Safety cameras are automated license plate reader systems that assist law enforcement by identifying vehicles associated with criminal investigations. They do not issue tickets or conduct traffic enforcement.
Sources: Brick Township Police Department press release.
