Through the “Community Connect” program, the Milwaukee Police Department integrates private surveillance cameras for police use.
Surveillance cameras are one of the most ubiquitous and recognizable technologies used to watch us as we move about our daily lives. The Milwaukee Police Department, private residences, and local business associations are installing an integrated network of cameras that would give law enforcement 24/7 real time access to surveillance around the city.
This access blurs the distinction between both public and private video feeds, creating an extensive surveillance state. Camera technology is growing in sophistication: some cameras are capable of 360-degree video, infrared vision, or the ability to pan, tilt, and zoom. Some models can be equipped with real-time face recognition or license plate recognition software. Since many camera networks are also connected directly to the Internet, they have proven easy targets for malicious attackers.
Read more:
- Milwaukee police using technology that allows for real-time access to security cameras
- Milwaukee police calling on residents, businesses to register security cameras with city
- Neighborhood Watch Out: Cops Are Using Fusus to Incorporate Private Cameras Into Their Real-Time Surveillance Networks
This technology is only one reason why we need a Community Control Over Police Surveillance (CCOPS) ordinance. CCOPS would require oversight and community input in invasive surveillance technologies, allowing the Wisconsinites being surveilled to make informed decisions about their privacy.
We know that the Police Foundation uses its money to advance surveillance programs, specifically the private camera registry. We don’t know if there are other surveillance programs funded by the Police Foundation. Milwaukee deserves to know how the police are surveilling us. Milwaukee needs CCOPS.
