An officer with the Metro Nashville Police Department addressed concerns about the proposed fusus technology during a public health and safety meeting before Metro Council. Officer Chris Gilder reassured council members that MNPD could only access footage from fusus cameras if a company or store voluntarily provided it. Council member Sandra Sepulveda questioned whether data could be subpoenaed, expressing concerns about immigrants being deported. Gilder explained that search warrants would be required and probable cause established before accessing footage.
Sepulveda also raised concerns about potential federal government abuse of the technology, citing a report from the new presidential administration allegedly planning to use military assets for mass deportations. Gilder emphasized that video footage is stored by the business owner, not MNPD, and access would require a warrant. The Metro Council deferred the vote on fusus technology until December’s meeting.
The discussion highlighted fears about privacy and government misuse of surveillance technology. Despite reassurances from the police department, questions remain about the implications of widespread camera use in public spaces. The debate reflects ongoing concerns about balancing public safety with civil liberties in the digital age. For more information and updates, visit WSMV’s website.
Source
Photo credit www.wsmv.com
