Former MPD Detective Criticizes Facial Recognition Pause

Argues technology is vital investigative tool, despite concerns over bias

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Last week, the Milwaukee Police Department issued an immediate ban on the use of facial recognition technology, citing public concern and the need to maintain community trust. However, former MPD Detective Eric Draeger has criticized the decision, calling it "shortsighted" and arguing the technology is an important investigative tool that can speed up case closures, even though he acknowledged concerns over false positives and racial bias.

Why it matters

The debate over facial recognition technology highlights the tension between public privacy concerns and law enforcement's desire to utilize powerful investigative tools. While the MPD ban aims to address community trust issues, critics argue it could hamper efforts to solve violent crimes, often impacting marginalized communities the most.

The details

Draeger argued that facial recognition is used only as an investigative lead and not grounds for arrest, and can dramatically speed case closures when suspects are otherwise unknown. He acknowledged concerns raised about false positives and racial bias, but said refusing the tool also harms victims, many of whom are people of color, by reducing the likelihood of justice. Draeger emphasized that strong policy safeguards, rather than outright bans, are the better path forward.

  • On February 3, 2026, the Milwaukee Police Department issued an immediate ban on the use of facial recognition technology.

The players

Eric Draeger

A former detective with the Milwaukee Police Department who is critical of the department's decision to ban facial recognition technology.

Milwaukee Police Department

The law enforcement agency that issued an immediate ban on the use of facial recognition technology, citing public concern and the need to maintain community trust.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This debate highlights the ongoing tension between public privacy concerns and law enforcement's desire to utilize powerful investigative tools like facial recognition technology. While the MPD ban aims to address community trust issues, critics argue it could hamper efforts to solve violent crimes, often impacting marginalized communities the most.