Print and fold this card to bring to meetings. It fits in your pocket for quick reference.
Talking Points
Police Radio Encryption 1
No evidence supports the "officer safety" claim
Zero documented cases of scanner-related officer harm in 100+ years of open radio.
2
Encryption costs millions with no proven benefit
NYPD: $390M. Philadelphia: $80M. No ROI for public safety.
3
Alternatives exist
Tactical-only encryption, delayed feeds, and hybrid models address concerns without full opacity.
4
Fire/EMS leaders oppose it
Interoperability concerns affect emergency response coordination.
5
Highland Park proves scanners save lives
2022 parade shooting: open scanners enabled faster public warning.
Counter-Arguments
Responding to Claims"Officers' safety is at risk"
→ Ask for documented incidents. There are none. The risk is theoretical.
"Criminals use scanners to evade police"
→ Modern criminals use cell phones, not scanners. This claim is outdated.
"We provide press releases instead"
→ Press releases are curated narratives, not real-time information. They omit details.
"Media can apply for access"
→ Credential programs exclude freelancers, create gatekeeping, and delay access.
"Other cities have done it"
→ Some cities have reversed encryption after community pushback (Palo Alto, Boulder).
How to Use This Card
- Print on cardstock if possible for durability
- Cut along the dotted lines
- Fold in half or keep both sides visible
- Bring to city council meetings and public comment sessions
- Review key points before speaking
- Reference counter-arguments when responding to officials