Minneapolis police drone debate draws packed crowds concerned about privacy
Summary
Minneapolis held a public meeting where many residents expressed concerns about the police department’s plan to use drones as part of a trial program. The program would let police use drones to quickly view crime scenes and improve response times, but community members worry about privacy and possible misuse of the technology.Key Facts
- About 50 people spoke at the Minneapolis City Council’s committee meeting about a police drone pilot program.
- The program is a free, 75-day trial focusing on the city’s Fourth Precinct to help police respond faster to 911 calls.
- Drones would livestream video of potential crime scenes before officers arrive, with cameras aimed away from private homes.
- The drones come from Skydio, a California company that also supplies drones to the Israeli government.
- Some residents fear the drones could invade privacy or be used for surveillance beyond the pilot’s intentions.
- The police said drones are tools to improve safety, not replacements for officers or emergency workers.
- Footage not used as evidence will be deleted after seven days.
- The City Council plans to vote on the program on July 16, with the trial possibly starting July 20.
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