Letters to the Editor: Don’t fear technology aimed at keeping us safe – The Oakland Press
Letters to the Editor: Don’t fear technology aimed at keeping us safe – The Oakland Press
Publish Date: 2026-05-20 13:15:00
Source Domain: www.theoaklandpress.com
Rather than letting misinformation drive policy, we should support proven programs like “Drone as a First Responder” and license plate readers — tools that are making a difference in fighting crime and protecting families.
The value of the drone program was on full display when it helped apprehend a dangerous heavily armed gunman in our county. Using real-time aerial intelligence, officers were able to pinpoint his exact location and arrest him before a single shot was fired. That is the program working exactly as intended: faster response and smarter deployment of resources.
Yet despite results like these, the program has been overshadowed by misinformation. The same is true for plate readers, which have a strong track record of helping officers identify and apprehend dangerous criminals. The evidence for both programs is clear, but that evidence risks being drowned out by those who would eliminate them before the public understands what would be lost.
Oakland County has worked hard to become the safe, family-friendly community it is today. Removing the technologies that help sustain that safety is dangerous. As crime and technology continue to evolve at a rapid pace, complacency is not an option.
Our county deserves forward-thinking leadership that invests in proven solutions. I urge our officials to protect and expand these programs so that our entire community can count on a safer future.
Brian Szmytke
Highland
