AST March 2018 Magazine March Final -3.3.18 | Page 11

Volume 21
Maybe it comes from too many crime dramas on TV or
maybe it comes from reports that represent a narrative
about bias that the facts simply don’t support.
During speaking engagements like this one, I consider it a duty
and a privilege to cut through the myths and share the reality of
how facial recognition can be an incredibly valuable tool for law
enforcement to develop leads and help solve cases.
Separating Biometric Facial Recognition Myths from
Reality
March 2018 Edition
using facial recognition, I am certain it works when properly
used in the investigative process to develop leads and help
solve cases.
• At the NYPD, the facial recognition investigation unit I spear-
headed has conducted more than 8,500 facial recognition
investigations and over 2,700 arrests.
• I know that without it, many cases would go unsolved.
• And I know that it has helped bring dangerous criminals to
justice, it has saved lives, and it protects officers and commu-
nities.
Fact Two: A facial recognition match is NOT the basis for
arrest.
While there are many misconceptions to address, I’ll
take you through the top four that were discussed at the • This is so important and that’s why we emphasize this over
Biometrics conference.
and over: Facial recognition technology provides leads; it is
Fact One: It works.
• When I joined Vigilant Solutions after serving over 20 years in
the New York Police Department (NYPD), I was asked, “If you
had one message that you would like the world to know about
facial recognition what would it be?”
• My response: “I want the world to know that this is a biometric
technology tool and not a biometric science.”
• What do I mean? Facial recognition is not 100% accurate. It is
not DNA.
• But here’s what I do know: After working on countless cases
NOT the basis for arrest.
• The onus always falls on the agency to establish probable
cause.
• Agencies should follow best investigative practices and estab-
lish policies for facial recognition investigations including:
documenting what you have done, creating an audit trail, and
demonstrating a disciplined approach to facial recognition
investigations.
• Critical to that disciplined approach in addition to the
background investigation, is a requirement that an analyst
individually examine the potential match to determine if the
physical attributes match up.
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