Mayor Andre Dickens has proposed new policies governing the use of surveillance technology by the Atlanta Police Department.
The legislation would create standards for implementing high-risk surveillance technologies, such as license plate readers or cameras, and requiring an in-depth review of the potential impacts of using the tools.
The new policies are actually an update of legislation drafted by Councilman Jason Dozier in June.
The proposed legislation also creates a specialized seven-member panel to review policies for use of the technology; requires ongoing audits of use; creates procedures for handling allegations of misuse; and bars vendors from selling the data.
Courtney English, the mayor’s chief of staff, told council members that there is a “serious need” to address the issue. English said a robust system that protects civil rights, liberties and privacy is possible.
“We can walk and chew gum at the same time,” he said.
The measure was sent back to the council’s public safety committee. The mayor’s office requested that the city council review the legislation during a work session and hold a public hearing on it within 60 days.
Credit: Ben Hendren
Credit: Ben Hendren
Dickens announced last week his plan to propose changes to the city’s camera and data policy after an Atlanta Police Department audit into use of the Flock surveillance tool flagged nearly 80 questionable searches for further investigation, the AJC previously reported.
The city said further investigation will determine if those searches deviated from policy or training.
Law enforcement agencies across Georgia have uncovered police misuse of license plate reader systems, firing dozens of officers and bringing criminal charges for allegedly accessing Flock Safety’s sprawling network of tag readers for personal use, the AJC previously reported.
The issue has prompted outrage and calls for police to stop using the technology altogether in jurisdictions across the nation.
Credit: AP Photo/David Goldman
Credit: AP Photo/David Goldman
In Tuesday’s news release, Dickens said the camera technology can help prevent crime and respond to emergencies.
“This legislation puts clear, consistent rules in place for how surveillance technology is reviewed, used and monitored across the City,” the mayor said in a statement. “Atlanta should be able to use responsible tools that serve a legitimate public purpose, and the more powerful the technology, the stronger the safeguards, transparency and accountability should be.”
About the Authors
Keep Reading
The Latest
Featured
