Mayor Wilson Reconsiders Camera Restrictions After Community Input In her February 19 State of the City address, Mayor Katie Wilson announced she would no longer pursue a blanket limit on police‑body‑camera and surveillance‑camera deployment, citing recent testimonies from families affected by gun violence. She described the issue as “contentious” and warned that data could be misused against vulnerable groups. Wilson emphasized that safety concerns, especially rising violent crime, prompted the reconsideration. [1]

Police Chief Highlights Cameras’ Role in Solving Homicides Chief Shon Barnes reported Seattle recorded 37 homicides in 2025, the lowest number since before the pandemic. He credited footage from the real‑time crime center with solving ten of those murders, demonstrating operational value. Barnes argued that expanding the camera network would further improve investigative outcomes. [1]

Business Leaders Advocate for More Surveillance to Boost Safety Jon Scholes, president of the Downtown Seattle Association, argued that additional cameras are essential for public safety in the city’s commercial core. He said live video feeds enable officers to identify suspects quickly and respond more effectively. Scholes’ position reflects a broader business‑community push for increased surveillance amid recent crime spikes. [1]

Community Critics Warn of Federal Access and Over‑Policing Taryn Darling, policy director of the Seattle Community Police Commission, cautioned that expanded camera data could be accessed by federal immigration authorities without a subpoena, disproportionately affecting Black and brown residents. Critics also note that dozens of cameras are already monitored from police headquarters, raising concerns about potential over‑policing. The community commission continues to demand stronger data‑privacy safeguards. [1]