ABSTRACT
The use of sophisticated technologies to conduct warrantless searches and surveillance of individuals and groups has become a common and ubiquitous practice by local, county, state, and special jurisdiction law enforcement agencies. The technological means and policies through which these practices are engaged in by law enforcement, as well as their funding, acquisition, and implementation, are frequently undertaken without public awareness, input, or approval. These searches and the accompanying surveillance often target individuals and groups who are not suspected of involvement in criminal activity and who are likely unaware that the police are monitoring their day-to-day activities. In fact, many individuals and groups are engaging in constitutionally protected activities when they are being observed by police, their activities being recorded and stored in restricted databases.
