Overview
- An AP investigation detailed a predictive program that scans license plates, flags “suspicious” routes, and prompts local police stops, with cameras often disguised in traffic cones, drums, or barrels.
- The network has expanded from border zones into major interior cities and draws data from DEA systems, private vendors such as Rekor, Vigilant Solutions and Flock Safety, and locally funded programs like Operation Stonegarden.
- CBP says the technology targets threats within a strict policy framework and notes Border Patrol can legally operate anywhere in the United States despite its typical 100‑mile border focus.
- Bay Area responses intensified this week, with Oakland councilmembers voting against expanding camera deployment and the Electronic Frontier Foundation suing San Jose over year‑long data retention and warrantless searches.
- Reported cases include drivers stopped, searched and sometimes arrested after Border Patrol flags, such as a Texas arrest later dropped and a Houston resident pursuing a constitutional lawsuit over a flagged travel pattern.