'FLOCKed': Cops say Jeep caught on FLOCK cameras was 'hot" (and so was a gun)

FORT WAYNE, Ind. ---There’s a huge conversation right now on the use of FLOCK cameras, sometimes referred to as Automated License Plate Readers.

Law enforcement really likes them, pointing out that FLOCK use has helped solved crimes.

Citizens, at least some citizens, feel FLOCK cameras are intrusive and could be used to spy on everyday people.

Jamari Wilcher

Thursday, FLOCK cameras came in handy when Fort Wayne police closed in on Jamari Deshawn Wilcher, 19, of Fort Wayne who was arrested and accused of operating a stolen car, court documents said.

The 2018 black Jeep was picked up on FLOCK automated license plate readers at Anthony Boulevard and Crescent Avenue around 3 p.m.

Officer C. Hawthorne engaged in a pursuit with Wilcher who fled “at a high rate of speed disregarding traffic signals, stop signs and driving into opposing lanes at speeds up to 70 mph in a residential area.”

After several miles, Hawthorne stopped the pursuit “for public safety,” according to the probable cause affidavit.

Checking the area, officers found the Jeep, but not Wilcher. However, police got a description the suspect was wearing all black, a ski mask and possibly carrying a firearm.

Sgt. Ed Black found Wilcher in an undisclosed location and Wilcher quickly surrendered. Wilcher had a ski mask stuffed in his pocket.

Police started searching the area and found a black Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm firearm near a tree, court documents said.

Video obtained from the area showed Wilcher getting out of the Jeep’s driver’s seat and dropping an object behind a tree where the cops found the firearm.

During a police interview, Wilcher admitted the Jeep and the gun were “hot,” i.e. stolen.

Wilcher is scheduled to appear in court Monday. He's been charged with theft of a vehicle and resisting law enforcement, both Level 6 felonies. No indication of a gun charge.