The Brief
- GPS darts to track fleeing cars approved for use by SFPD.
- Technology used by other Bay Area law enforcement departments.
- But the devices don’t always work.
SAN FRANCISCO – It’s a high-tech alternative to police chases. A GPS dart fired from a cop cruiser latches onto the getaway car. Officers can then pull back and track the suspects remotely without risking a pursuit that could lead to crashes, injuries or deaths.
San Francisco police got the green light this week to use the StarChase technology.
“StarChase is potentially a game changer,” said Supervisor Matt Dorsey, who previously worked for SFPD. He said he supports technology that enhances safety. …