Technology plays an important role in law enforcement, supporting the good work of the men and women of the Milwaukee Police Department. In investigations, communications, and accountability, technology has added to the capabilities and effectiveness of our police.

As we deploy technology, it is essential that we recognize the limitations and dangers associated with these tools. At all times, law enforcement must fully protect the rights of individuals so that devices such as Automated License Plate Readers technology, through Flock cameras, do not compromise the liberties we all embrace.  The police department previously established and detailed standard operating procedures regarding that technology. Those regulations deserve review and scrutiny as more information comes to light.

I recognize the benefits of the Flock cameras system. On multiple occasions this tool has located critical missing persons and helped apprehend violent criminals in Milwaukee. The technology has also been misused in several notable instances, both locally and nationally, compromising the rights of individuals.

Changes in the way the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) uses Flock cameras are necessary and appropriate. In consultation with the Chief of the Milwaukee Police Department and the Executive Director of the Fire and Police Commission, along with communications with Milwaukee County officials, I am insisting on significant policy adjustments.

1.         Access to Flock camera systems data was limited earlier this year.  At my direction, MPD has agreed to further restrict access to this data. Only supervisors will be allowed to access Flock camera systems. No officers or detectives will be allowed access to these systems at this time.

2.         The use of Flock cameras will be limited to Part I crimes, critical missing persons, drug trafficking organization investigations and abductions only. Part I crimes only include homicide, rape, robbery, aggravated assaults (to include non-fatal shootings), burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft, arson and human trafficking. 

3.         At my direction, MPD has agreed to create a publicly available dashboard providing the community information about the Department’s use of Flock camera technology.

4.         MPD has agreed to further limit access to Flock cameras by restricting access to Milwaukee’s cameras only to MPD. This means that MPD Flock data will be strictly limited to MPD so that auditing and oversight is fully within its control.

5.         In its oversight role, the Fire and Police Commission (FPC) has already initiated an audit of the Flock camera system and its use in the city. At my direction, the FPC Executive Director has agreed that semiannual independent audits of MPD’s Flock camera use will be conducted.  I have requested that these results be shared directly with my office as an additional review of Flock camera use as well as provide public access to the findings.

6.         My office will continuously monitor the use of Flock cameras on a regular basis.

I am committed to regularly reviewing our use of Flock cameras and will make further decisions when and if necessary.

I value the thoughtful discussions I have had with the Milwaukee Police Chief and the Executive Director of the Fire and Police Commission. They join me in a commitment to fairness and justice for all individuals who may be impacted by emerging technologies.