Clinton Graham on Flock Cameras:

Responsible & Ethical Flock camera use!

I am State Representative candidate Clinton Graham. I would like to share my and our community members' ideas regarding Flock cameras….

Flock cameras CAN be used for good. To keep us safe and stop crime. The problem is, when technology is rolled out too fast, abuse and those who aren’t responsible enough to behold that power, can use the system for personal vendettas. There have been countless reports of this throughout the country and even in Massachusetts; New Bedford for a quick example.

As a former law enforcement officer and as a longtime community member who values public safety, as well as can relate to those who have felt marginalized, The safer approach for all members of our community would be to:

1. Require a special clearance for officers to utilize the system. Can not have current Internal Affairs investigations pending and/or multiple community complaints. OR create a special position, with heightened clearance and qualifications to monitor and use the flock camera system.

2. Track who used the system, what was searched for and where the data was sent. Provide transparent data usage to the community where possible; and ofcourse not during an active investigation. But after investigation, records and data that is possible to be released, should be.

3. Have the system only be used for OUR law enforcement; and NOT ICE. (Regular police investigations can be conducted if there are any infractions by the public) The qualifications, background investigations, and integrity of our police department is of higher quality and more humane, than that of the examples of other law enforcement practices.

4. Some data restrictions by the Flock company to put safeguards in place to prohibit human tendencies of possible abuse. Shouldn’t be allowed to just track vehicles, data, and individuals without warrants, exigent circumstances would allow for faster utilization; but only in emergencies that are well documented and reported on after emergency.

With these safeguards in place, along with some community input on items that I may have not considered, would ensure a collaborative effort of the community WITH the police department to significantly increase the safety of the general public and public servants.

It should never be the police versus the community. I have full faith that the chief wants to both instill trust amongst community members; as well as keep the community safe. What are your thoughts Randolph ?

I will inquire and request feedback from the police chief; as his input on this hot button topic would be greatly appreciated.

For more info: GrahamForRep.com

Jesse Gordon on Flock