TO: All Personnel
FROM: C. L. Deck-Brown, Chief of Police
DEPARTMENT: Police
DATE: February 20, 2020
SUBJECT: Restricted Use of Facial Recognition Software
As some of you are aware, there have been several media reports regarding
the use of Clearview AI facial recognition software. The Raleigh Police
Department only authorized three users of the Clearview AI software. On
February 7, 2020, an email was sent to those three users stating, “Effective
immediately, the use of Clearview AI is prohibited.“ Upon further review of this
matter, it has been determined that others were offered the use of this tool via
an email regarding an invitation, user referral or free trial from the company.
Effective immediately, all personnel (sworn or civilian) are hereby directed to
cease the use of any unauthorized facial recognition systems to include, but not
limited to, Clearview AI.
As a reminder, DOI 1110-13: Facial Recognition Systems specifically
addresses the control and use of the facial recognition system. The facial
recognition system will only be used for official law enforcement purposes and
in accordance with all State and Federal laws protecting an individual’s
reasonable expectation of privacy.
Comparisons of photos utilizing the Raleigh Police Department’s facial
recognition system will be made to a database of arrest photos maintained by
the City-County Bureau of Identification (CCBI) of persons arrested in Wake
County.
The Raleigh Police Department is committed to reducing crime and maintaining
order by aggressively investigating criminal activity that threatens public safety
and diminishes the quality of life in our neighborhoods. Facial recognition
systems are tools used to assist law enforcement with identifying persons
involved in investigations by comparing a suspect’s photograph to photographs
of known and unknown offenders. Facial recognition systems allow law
enforcement agencies to save time and resources by providing investigative
leads quickly, supplementing more traditional methods of policing. The use of
these tools is consistent with the mission of the Raleigh Police Department in
providing the highest level of service to the community while still recognizing
legitimate privacy interests held by citizens.
Municipal Building
222 West Hargett Street
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601
One Exchange Plaza
1 Exchange Plaza, Suite 1020
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601
City of Raleigh
Post Office Box 590 • Raleigh
North Carolina 27602-0590
(Mailing Address)

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