ACLU fights to keep FBI out of Ohio crime database

The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio is asking Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine to reject a proposal that would allow the Federal Bureau of Investigation to access Ohio’s law enforcement database.

The law enforcement database includes facial recognition data, which the ACLU is arguing should require the public’s input to allow access.

“Letting the FBI into OHLEG would give the federal government access to millions of photographs from sources including drivers’ licenses, criminal mug shots, and corrections photos,” said Gary Daniels, chief lobbyist for ACLU of Ohio. “The FBI has a history of employing secret mass surveillance, and documented problems with management of facial recognition technology.”

The ACLU of Ohio also cites the need for greater security and oversight of personal information such as facial recognition data.

“The FBI’s ongoing track record of widespread mass surveillance and blatant disregard for laws and policies meant to protect our privacy should, at the very minimum, give Ohio pause,” Daniels said.

This news outlet will ask DeWine for his reaction to the ACLU letter during an interview later today.