Are Drones the Police of the Future?
Most people have heard of drones. In fact, the small flying machines have become so popular over recent years that some Atlantans even have their own. From private citizens to companies like Amazon, drones have found their way into today’s society for a wide variety of uses. We use the machines for entertainment and are slated to possibly start using them as delivery systems, so the next step may seem logical: police work.
Connecticut is set to become the first state in the country to allow drones in their police department. These will be no ordinary drones, however. They will be equipped with deadly weapons. The legislation has been approved by the judiciary committee in the state and will be moving to the House of Representatives.
As part of the legislation, any drones equipped with weapons, or weaponized drones, would be banned within the state, with the exception of law enforcement agencies. The amendment to allow law enforcement agencies to possess and use weaponized drones was added just before it went to committee for a vote. Civil rights activists want the bill returned to its original wording.
The Potential Issues with Weaponized Drones
According to the executive director of the ACLU in the state, David McGuire, data has shown that police use force in the minority community with greater regularity. The fear is that these drones will be used in those communities and in urban centers more frequently than in other areas, infringing upon the rights of people who already feel targeted by law enforcement.
There are currently 36 states in the nation that have enacted some type of law with regards to restricting drones. There are four more states that have adopted limits on their use. Part of the issue in Connecticut is that no one has said exactly how the drones will be utilized. In many states that allow them, drones are used to deliver non-lethal types of force, such as tear gas and pepper spray.
Will Other States Follow Suit?
While drones may certainly work to protect police officers in hazardous or life-threatening situations, people worry that they will also be used to “control” the masses in ways that are not acceptable. If Connecticut passes the law, it will be interesting to see if other states follow suit or adjust their own currently standing laws to permit drones to utilize lethal weapons.
If you are arrested for a crime in Atlanta, a drone probably won’t be involved, but your reputation will be on the line. Not only is your good name at risk, but your very livelihood could be at stake. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney standing by your side and fighting for your rights. Reach out to our team today to schedule a free case evaluation.We will review the details of your case and advise you of your legal options. Call now to speak with a member of our team.