The 'Stop and Frisk' Tool Allows Passersby to Videotape Searches
Vivian Lau — June 14, 2012 — Tech
References: nyclu.org & fastcompany
It is the 'Stop and Frisk' app's goal to counteract acts of police brutality that can go easily unnoticed, as the emotionally-charged movie 'Crash' so dramatically depicted.
The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) has launched this technology, allowing witnesses to file incidence reports of police searches as they happen, in an effort to protect the citizens on NYC against the notorious frisk-happy NYPD. These passersby are prompted to specify whether violence, sexual comments or weapons were used. They are also given the option of uploading video and audio content of the scene, which can be accessed by anybody who has the app.
With so much power granted to authorities, police often go unquestioned -- this app harnesses the power of mobile technology to hold officers accountable and honest.
The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) has launched this technology, allowing witnesses to file incidence reports of police searches as they happen, in an effort to protect the citizens on NYC against the notorious frisk-happy NYPD. These passersby are prompted to specify whether violence, sexual comments or weapons were used. They are also given the option of uploading video and audio content of the scene, which can be accessed by anybody who has the app.
With so much power granted to authorities, police often go unquestioned -- this app harnesses the power of mobile technology to hold officers accountable and honest.
Trend Themes
1. Police Brutality-prevention Apps - Apps that aim to document instances of police brutality through video and audio recording provide users the ability to hold law enforcement officials accountable for their actions.
2. Crowdsourced Civil Liberty Protection - By allowing passersby to record and report police searches, technology offers a new means of holding law enforcement accountable and protecting the civil liberties of ordinary individuals.
3. Instant Citizen Journalism - Apps that allow for the instant documentation and sharing of video and audio evidence of police searches represent the democratization of journalism and the empowerment of ordinary citizens.
Industry Implications
1. Law Enforcement and Public Safety - The launch of the Stop and Frisk app challenges traditional models of law enforcement and could lead to greater transparency and accountability in the field.
2. Technology and Mobile Apps - The incorporation of technology into the field of public safety is creating new opportunities for citizen journalism and holding law enforcement accountable through the use of mobile apps.
3. Civil Liberties and Advocacy - Throughout history, advocates have used technology to promote the protection of civil liberties and human rights; the Stop and Frisk app is a prime example of how technology can be leveraged to promote change and hold those in power accountable.
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