It failed in Oakland like it failed in Connecticut. The projectiles do not attach. StarChase is a technology that allows law enforcement to deploy GPS tracking devices onto fleeing vehicles, enabling officers to monitor suspects’ movements without engaging in high-speed pursuits. The system uses compressed-air launchers mounted on police vehicles to fire adhesive GPS tags onto suspect vehicles, allowing real-time tracking from a distance.
Oakland Police Department’s Experience:
The Oakland Police Department (OPD) adopted StarChase in 2019 to reduce the risks associated with high-speed chases. However, after five years, OPD decided not to renew its contract due to operational challenges. The department reported that out of four deployment attempts, none successfully attached a tracker to a pursued vehicle, rendering the technology ineffective in their operations.
Stated Pros of StarChase Technology:
- Enhanced Safety:By allowing officers to track vehicles remotely, StarChase aims to minimize the dangers of high-speed pursuits, thereby protecting both officers and the public.
- Improved Apprehension Rates:Some reports indicate that agencies using StarChase have achieved higher suspect apprehension rates compared to traditional pursuit methods.
Known Cons and Controversies:
- Attachment Failures:As experienced by OPD, the technology is known to fail to attach the GPS tag to the vehicle, limiting its effectiveness. Similar to Oakland, other agencies have faced difficulties with the technology’s reliability and effectiveness, leading to discontinued use.
- Constitutional Concerns:The use of GPS tracking devices without warrants has raised Fourth Amendment issues related to unreasonable searches and seizures.
Additional Information:
- Cost:As of 2013, the vehicle-mounted system cost approximately $5,000 per installation, with each GPS projectile priced around $500.
- Technological Developments:StarChase has introduced handheld GPS launchers and mobile tracking applications to provide more flexible deployment options for law enforcement agencies.
More information on StarChase technology and its applications:
orlando.gov+11en.wikipedia.org+11keranews.org+11the-sun.com+6orlando.gov+6en.wikipedia.org+6
keranews.org+5orlando.gov+5daytondailynews.com+5
https://oaklandside.org/2024/07/22/oakland-police-pursuits-starchase/
https://www.policemag.com/vehicle-ops/article/15347647/pursuit-tracking
How legal are they?
