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Public hearing spotlights privacy, oversight concerns over Syracuse police drone program
Summary
Residents urged the Syracuse Common Council to delay approval of a proposed Syracuse Police Department drone policy and Axon contract, citing missing procedures, data-sharing risks, and potential surveillance of protests; the public hearing was closed and the legislation will be considered later.
Syracuse — Residents told the Syracuse Common Council on Tuesday they want more limits and clearer procedures before the council approves a proposed revision to Syracuse Police Department (SPD) Policy 606 and a related agreement with Axon that would expand use of remotely operated drones.
Speakers at the public hearing said the policy rewrite and supporting contract lack needed safeguards on when drones may be flown remotely, how recorded images would be retained or shared, and what limits — if any — apply to surveillance of demonstrations and other public gatherings.
"This program is not ready for approval," said Barry Gewanter, a Syracuse resident, criticizing the proposal and urging the council to delay consideration until a new procedure document is drafted. "Remotely operated drones could be used for the management of in-process incidents...but not as a part of routine…
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