Encryption is a New Technology Standard
This claim is not supported by evidence.
The Claim
Police radio encryption is simply the natural evolution of radio technology—a modern standard that all departments are adopting as systems get upgraded.
The Evidence
Encryption is a policy choice, not a technical requirement.
- Modern digital radio systems (like P25) can operate with or without encryption—it's a switch, not an inherent feature
- Many departments upgrading to digital systems have chosen to keep communications open
- The surge in encryption correlates directly with 2020 protests, not technology refresh cycles
- Some departments that encrypted are now reconsidering due to community backlash
The Reality
The timing tells the real story:
- Pre-2020: Digital radio systems existed for years without widespread encryption
- Summer 2020: George Floyd protests lead to open scanners documenting police misconduct, racist remarks, and excessive force
- Post-2020: Rapid acceleration of encryption policies nationwide, often implemented quickly without community input
- Present day: Departments cite 'officer safety' but the evidence points to avoiding accountability
The technology enables encryption, but police departments are choosing to use it—and that choice is happening overwhelmingly in response to increased scrutiny and calls for accountability, not because of any documented safety need.
Bottom Line
When police departments make this claim, ask them for evidence. The documented facts don't support it.
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