Expanded surveillance technology in Seattle leads to heated public meeting

KOMO-TV and several other outlets (here and here) reported on a public meeting in Seattle over Mayor Bruce Harrell’s proposed expansion of surveillance tech, including security cameras in high-crime areas and gunshot detection tech, ShotSpotter. While some attendees voiced opposition, community advocates argued these tools are needed to address Seattle’s rising gun violence. “We can have (opponents of the expansion) talk about BIPOC, about the Black community, but have they been to a funeral? How many times have they sat with a mother crying because their son has been killed?” asked Rev. Harriett Waldon. “The Black community wants it. We need it,” added community advocate Victoria Bush. The proposal faces a handful of additional steps before potential implementation this summer.