Milwaukee police face backlash over facial recognition plan
A public hearing revealed MPD is already using facial recognition software despite concerns from residents and advocacy groups.
Milwaukee Police Department is planning to introduce facial recognition technology as a tool to generate leads in criminal investigations.
According to officials, the system would match images from investigations with arrest photos already in possession, though police stress that further evidence would still be required for any legal action.
Despite these assurances, documents presented at a public meeting showed that Milwaukee police are already using the technology in collaboration with other departments, such as Wauwatosa PD.
The plan includes obtaining two software licences from the data firm Biometrica in exchange for access to a vast database of 2.5 million mugshots.
The arrangement has sparked backlash from community members and civil rights groups, with 19 organisations voicing opposition. Critics cite risks of misidentification, algorithmic bias, lack of transparency, questionable data sharing, and the potential for federal misuse.
Residents raised ethical concerns over trading biometric data without public consent.
Though the police do not need formal approval under Act 12, which grants departments policy-setting autonomy, officials say they are engaging in community dialogue voluntarily.
Still, local leaders may intervene if a two-thirds majority of the common council votes to block or alter the policy. The timeline for implementation remains uncertain.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!