NYC parties to be monitored by police drones, sparking privacy debate.

The NYPD’s ​Plan ‍to Use Drones for⁤ Backyard Party Surveillance Sparks Privacy Concerns

The New York City Police ‌Department has ​announced its intention to employ unmanned⁤ drones ‌to ​monitor backyard parties during the upcoming Labor ⁢Day weekend, igniting a ⁢fresh wave of privacy concerns in the bustling metropolis.

The ⁢decision comes in response to numerous complaints about ​large gatherings, as stated by⁣ law enforcement officials‌ on Thursday. However, this move has immediately faced backlash from privacy advocates who fear excessive policing.

“If a caller reports a large crowd or a party in⁤ a ⁣backyard, we will utilize our assets to ⁣investigate and assess the situation,” explained​ Kaz Daughtry, assistant NYPD commissioner, during a press conference.

This strategy was unveiled ahead of‍ the J’Ouvert and West Indian‌ Day Parade festivities, which are centered in Brooklyn. While the police emphasize their desire for everyone to⁢ enjoy ‍a celebratory weekend with minimal enforcement, the drones will be dispatched to both priority and non-priority calls.

According to the Gothamist, the drones‌ transmit images to⁣ a control‍ operations unit located within police headquarters. This enables authorities‍ to determine the appropriate⁢ response‍ required. ​Chief of Patrol John Chell has highlighted the drones’ ability to respond faster ​than‌ patrol⁣ cars, particularly in crowded events.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams, ⁤a former NYPD captain, has faced⁤ scrutiny regarding his investment in the city’s police department, including ​the use of drones.‍ This technology not only raises concerns‌ about privacy but⁤ also sparks debates about the extent to which advanced technology should be utilized for citizen surveillance.

Adams, who recently visited Israel and witnessed the country’s ⁢extensive use of drones, believes their potential is “endless” and wants the police force in New⁣ York City to ​fully embrace this technology.

The Challenges of NYC’s Urban Landscape

With a population ‌exceeding 8 ⁣million people, New ​York City is the largest city in the United States and ⁤known for its high population​ density. Large gatherings often ⁣lead to increased noise levels and⁢ street congestion. In addition to the ⁢parades, ⁢the⁣ Labor Day weekend is expected to draw large crowds due to it being a federal holiday.

Click here to read more from‍ The Washington Examiner.