Slashdot: US Police Seldom Disclose Use of AI-Powered Facial Recognition, Investigation Finds

Source URL: https://yro.slashdot.org/story/24/10/06/2326215/us-police-seldom-disclose-use-of-ai-powered-facial-recognition-investigation-finds?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed
Source: Slashdot
Title: US Police Seldom Disclose Use of AI-Powered Facial Recognition, Investigation Finds

Feedly Summary:

AI Summary and Description: Yes

Summary: The report highlights serious concerns regarding the use of facial recognition technology by law enforcement in the U.S., focusing on transparency and due process issues. Many individuals arrested through this technology were not informed of its use, raising ethical and legal implications for compliance with privacy laws and fair trial rights.

Detailed Description: The Washington Post investigation into the use of facial recognition software by police departments reveals significant transparency and due process challenges. The findings underscore the need for enhanced regulations and compliance measures related to AI-driven technologies in law enforcement, shedding light on possible infringements of rights under existing laws.

– **Key Points:**
– Hundreds of arrests were made based on facial recognition without the knowledge of arrestees.
– Police often obfuscate the use of facial recognition in public reports, citing “investigative means.”
– In South Florida, the Coral Springs Police Department has explicit instructions to avoid revealing facial recognition technology in reports, claiming Investigative techniques are exempt from public disclosure.
– The absence of federal regulations leaves courts divided on the applicability of Brady violations (which require prosecution to disclose evidence that could exonerate a defendant) to AI use.
– Some local jurisdictions are beginning to push for more transparency, yet actual practices remain inconsistent.
– The Miami Police Department conducted numerous facial recognition searches, resulting in a limited disclosure rate to those arrested (approximately 7%).
– A public defender raised concerns about the violation of due process rights, stating that defendants must have access to evidence against them.
– In response to the investigation, Miami law enforcement announced plans to revise policies to ensure clearer disclosure of facial recognition technology usage.

The implications of this report are substantial for professionals in security and privacy. Policymakers and law enforcement agencies must address the gaps in accountability and transparency concerning AI technologies in criminal justice to uphold civil rights and comply with legal obligations. Compliance professionals should closely monitor local and state developments on facial recognition use to ensure adherence to emerging regulations and to establish best practices for transparency and ethical standards in AI deployment.