The Columbia Police Department is considering purchasing technology aimed at identifying stolen vehicles or vehicles used in the course of another crime. Before making a decision, the department is seeking public input on the matter. This is an important step in ensuring transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices.
To gather feedback from residents, the department has scheduled multiple public meetings where individuals can provide comments regarding the Flock Safety camera system. These meetings are set to take place on August 14 and 15 at various locations throughout the city. The schedule for the meetings is as follows:
– August 14:
– 9 a.m. at Lange Middle School cafeteria, 2201 Smiley Lane
– Noon at Columbia City Hall council chambers, 701 E. Broadway
– 3 p.m. at Daniel Boone Regional Library Friends Room, 100 W. Broadway
– 7 p.m. at Molly Thomas Bowden Policing Center community room, 1204 International Drive
– August 15:
– 9 a.m. at Crossing Church Student Center, room 320, 3615 Southland Drive
– Noon at city hall council chambers, 701 E. Broadway
– 3 p.m. at Gentry Middle School media center, 4200 Bethel St.
– 7 p.m. at Boone Electric Cooperative community room, 1413 Rangeline St.
According to a news release from the department, Flock Safety cameras are designed to provide real-time alerts to law enforcement when they detect stolen vehicles or suspect vehicles listed in local, state, or national crime databases. These cameras can also notify authorities if a vehicle connected to a missing person case, such as an AMBER or Silver Alert, is identified.
The cameras record license plate numbers and other vehicle details, such as make, model, and color. It is important to note that they do not capture images of people or their faces, and they do not use facial recognition technology. Additionally, the cameras are not intended for remote or automated traffic enforcement and will not be used for those purposes.
The department emphasizes that the Flock Safety system is meant to support law enforcement by providing objective evidence crucial for solving cases. According to the International Association of Chiefs of Police, vehicles are involved in 70% of crimes, and 97% of car thieves face additional charges including robbery, burglary, theft, drug trafficking, and violent crimes.
In addition to seeking public input on the proposed purchase of the technology, the department has drafted a policy and procedure outlining the appropriate use of the camera system. The public is also invited to comment on this policy. For those unable to attend the meetings, there will be opportunities to provide feedback via BeHeardComo from late Monday through September 10.
Overall, the Columbia Police Department’s initiative to involve the public in the decision-making process regarding the purchase of technology for identifying stolen vehicles and vehicles used in crimes is commendable. By seeking input from residents and outlining clear policies for the use of the technology, the department is taking proactive steps to ensure accountability and transparency in its law enforcement practices.