Recent social media activity has prompted a reminder from local law enforcement regarding the serious legal repercussions for vandalizing or stealing Flock Cameras in the Bismarck and Mandan area. An anonymous social media post titled "Bismarck Flock Camera Purge Night October 31st" recently appeared on a local Bismarck community page, leading to concerns about potential property destruction. Law enforcement officials emphasize that such acts could result in felony charges, significant prison time, and substantial fines.
A law enforcement officer, who requested anonymity, stated that most Flock cameras exceed $2,000 in value, with some systems being considerably more expensive. This valuation is critical because it directly impacts the severity of potential charges under North Dakota law.
According to the unnamed law enforcement officer, the destruction or theft of property valued between $2,000 and $10,000 constitutes a Class C felony under North Dakota Century Code (NDCC) 12.1-21-05, known as the Criminal Mischief statute. This charge applies to individuals who might destroy a single Flock camera system or its associated solar-power assembly. A conviction for a Class C felony can carry a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both prison time and a fine.
Furthermore, if the value of the damaged or stolen property exceeds $10,000, the charges can escalate to a Class B felony. This higher-level felony would be applicable if an individual were to destroy multiple cameras or intentionally target and vandalize a cluster of Flock cameras in the local area, where the combined financial loss surpasses the $10,000 threshold. A Class B felony conviction carries an even more severe maximum penalty, including up to ten years in prison, a fine of up to $20,000, or both.
Beyond the direct legal penalties, local taxpayers would ultimately bear the financial burden for replacing any Flock cameras owned by the city or state. This means residents of Bismarck and Mandan would indirectly pay for the damage through their tax contributions. The anonymous social media post, while likely intended as a joke, highlights the serious consequences that could arise if someone were to act upon such a suggestion, particularly given the high cost of the camera systems.
Local authorities underscore that engaging in vandalism of these systems carries significant personal risk, including lengthy prison sentences and hefty financial penalties, impacting both the individuals involved and the broader community.
