Many police departments, driven by concerns over safety and privacy, are moving to encrypt their emergency radio communications. As a result, law enforcement is increasingly limiting public access to real-time dispatches involving all kinds of incidents, ranging from aggressive animals to potentially armed individuals.
Major jurisdictions have already implemented encryption to some degree. They include Denver, San Francisco, San Diego County, Baltimore, Chicago, New York, and Sioux Falls. Minneapolis and Indianapolis are expected to follow suit soon.
Historically, listening to emergency channels was a niche hobby for radio enthusiasts, but recent technological advancements have made it as easy as watching TV. This widespread access has led to a surge in listeners of police communications.
Many law enforcement officials recognize the value of allowing civilians, especially journalists, to hear their communications. However, officials cite the increase in listeners, coupled with the popularity of true-crime shows and reality TV, as raising concerns about public safety and the potential compromise of personal information. They contend that real-time tracking of police activity on social media can endanger operations or cause unnecessary panic.
The trend towards encryption has sparked debate among press freedom groups and advocates for government transparency. They argue that immediate access to emergency information is a societal benefit and caution against measures that could reduce this accessibility.
Some cities limit real-time access but have adopted measures to keep the public informed, such as through delayed feeds or logs of emergency calls. Still, the debate continues and increases the likelihood that in cities like Indianapolis, where police conduct has been under scrutiny, encrypting communications will increase tension and distrust between residents and officers.