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In an era reminiscent of high-tech espionage films, police can now tag a vehicle with a GPS tracking dart, thus avoiding the risks associated with high-speed chases. This technology, once fictional, has transitioned into practical use as various police departments implement these systems to safely track suspects on the run.
The Old Westbury Police Department in New York deploys launchers that shoot foam projectiles with an adhesive substance. These darts, developed by StarChase, cache wireless GPS devices for tracking vehicles once they make contact. This technology has also been offered to other departments like the NYPD through handheld devices. Programs like these aim to make car chases obsolete, thus enhancing public safety.
Police Chief Stuart Cameron of Old Westbury has expressed a strong preference against pursuits because of the inherent risks involved, mentioning the numerous injuries and fatalities that result from high-speed chases involving officers, suspects, and bystanders, as referenced by Gothamist.
This is exactly the kind of situation the trackers are meant to prevent the need for. AP News via YouTube
The dart launchers, which are attached to the police cars, allow officers to tag and then track the suspect’s car by backing off after the projectile is secure, projecting from compressed air at around 30 mph and adhering without damage.
Police departments in Michigan, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington State, among others, have already started using these GPS tracking darts. Nonetheless, these devices have stirred up debate regarding their legality, especially in connection with the Fourth Amendment. The Supreme Court’s ruling in U.S. vs Jones (2012) clarified that warrantless GPS tracking is an invasion of privacy. Still, the ACLU doesn’t see a problem with GPS tracking darts, provided they are used during active pursuits and promptly removed after the pursuit ends, as elucidated by ACLU senior policy analyst Jay Stanley.
Although the use of GPS tracking darts is not entirely new, its application has recently become more mainstream in law enforcement. These devices carry the potential for dystopian misuse but, if employed judiciously, can reduce the likelihood of high-speed chase induced accidents.
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FAQ Section
How do the GPS tracking darts work?
GPS tracking darts are deployed using a vehicle-mounted or handheld launcher, which shoots a foam projectile with a GPS device embedded in it. The dart adheres to the suspect’s vehicle, allowing police to track it remotely and avoid a high-speed pursuit.
Are GPS tracking darts legal?
While the legality of these devices can be complex, their use is often considered lawful if applied during an active chase and the GPS tracking device is removed after the pursuit is over, as per guidelines suggested by the ACLU and court rulings such as U.S. vs Jones.
Where is this technology being used?
GPS tracking darts are being used by police departments in New York, Michigan, Tennessee, Texas, Washington State, and potentially more locations as the technology becomes increasingly adopted.
Do the tracking darts cause damage to the vehicle?
These darts are designed to adhere to the vehicle without causing damage, attaching through a heat-activated sticky glue applied to a foam projectile.
What are the benefits of using GPS darts over traditional car chases?
The primary benefit is public safety, as it reduces the need for high-speed chases that can lead to accidents and fatalities involving suspects, police officers, and bystanders.
Conclusion
The advent of GPS tracking dart technology in law enforcement operations signals not just an advance in policing methods, but also a commitment to public safety. While reminiscent of spy fiction, these darts serve a very real and constructive purpose in modern-day law enforcement by providing a safer alternative to traditional vehicular pursuits. This technology, when used correctly, stands as a promising tool to balance the effectiveness of police work with the constitutional rights of individuals and the overall welfare of the community.
