"The audience in the council chambers occasionally devolved into shouting matches, once broke into song and frequently hissed and booed or hooted and clapped in response to arguments."
"Police and proponents say the new hardware is crucial to catching criminals, while critics worry federal agents will hijack the data the network gathers to conduct mass deportations."
"This development represents the largest surveillance expansion in the city's history, and it deserves careful and deliberate consideration."
The Berkeley City Council delayed a vote on a $2 million expansion of the police department's surveillance network after a contentious meeting. Residents expressed strong opposition, leading to a chaotic atmosphere with shouting and protests. The proposed expansion includes renewing automated license plate readers, acquiring drones, and allowing businesses to stream live video to police. A procedural issue regarding meeting extensions prevented a vote, which is now rescheduled for June 2. Supporters argue the expansion is vital for crime prevention, while critics fear misuse of data by federal agents.
Read at www.berkeleyside.org
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