CU Boulder Today reports on CUPD’s data sharing from camera technology

Less than a year after implementing innovative camera technology to prevent and solve crimes, the CU Boulder Police Department is now sharing specific information collected by the devices. This information is accessible to anyone and includes details like the number of vehicles detected and any “hotlist hits” on vehicles. These hits can signal a stolen vehicle/plate, a vehicle associated with an amber alert, or a vehicle used in a crime.

The newly introduced transparency portal also discloses the number of searches done by the police in response to the hits. This information can be found on a portal on the CUPD website alongside the department’s crime data dashboards. Chief of Police Doreen Jokerst mentioned that sharing this information with the community is an exciting opportunity to showcase how the technology aids in solving crimes proactively.

CU Boulder first started using Flock Safety cameras last summer. The cameras capture still images of vehicles’ license plates upon entry to campus without capturing images of drivers. They do not use facial recognition, detect gender or race, or capture images of pedestrians or vehicles without license plates like bikes or scooters.

Commander Eric Edford expressed that the Flock Safety cameras have been an invaluable asset in crime prevention and investigation for the CUPD. The cameras have provided valuable leads that have helped officers solve crimes where other information was lacking.

The transparency portal also includes guidelines on acceptable use and prohibited actions such as immigration enforcement, traffic enforcement, harassment, or discrimination based on protected classes like race, sex, or religion. Data is only retained for 30 days to protect the privacy of law-abiding citizens and will never be shared or sold to third parties.

Individuals who witness or suspect crimes occurring should report them by calling 911. CUPD operates as part of CU Boulder’s Division of Public Safety.