Local News
Related Photos
Discussion
Tools
GPS allows police to electronically track suspects
Some see erosion of privacy rights
MANKATO — Investigators had a tip that 39-year-old Curtis John Rathai was gathering the ingredients he needed to make a batch of methamphetamine, but they had no idea where he might take the cold pills, iodine crystals and other chemicals to start “cooking.”
With the help of a high-tech global positioning system tracking device that had been secretly installed on Rathai’s pickup truck, a drug task force team was able to use a computer and Google mapping to follow Rathai to a rented farmhouse on one of Blue Earth County’s many back roads.
The same tracking device, operated by Nicollet County sheriff’s deputy Marc Chadderdon, was used to build a case against Joseph Dahl, a Watonwan County deputy accused of shirking his duties. Chadderdon installed the small box in Dahl’s squad car, then used computers and the Internet to track everywhere the deputy’s car went for two weeks in late February and early March.
Krista Jass, chief public defender for the state’s 5th Judicial District, said it’s another example of technology being used to erode an individual’s right to privacy. The information gathered also could be used unjustly to make an arrest or search a home, she said.
“Technology is great, but it shouldn’t be a means for the government to violate the Fourth and Fifth amendments,” Jass said. “It is surveillance."
For complete story, see the Sunday, May 18, print edition of The Free Press or sign onto our e-edition.
- Local News
-
-
Flood wall gets twice-daily inspections
The repeated foot inspections are required during flood conditions by the federal government.
-
River's rise relents
More roads are closed, including a northbound lane of Highway 169 north of St. Peter.
-
Local economy a mixed bag
Commerical construction slumps, and the increase in residential construction is largely from one project near the MSU campus.
-
Flood warning for region upgraded to "moderate"
CLICK for latest Mankato weather forecast and flood warnings
Detailed floodwatch for New Ulm, Mankato, St. Peter, Henderson.
-
County hopes to save mental health crisis center
The plan would still require more than $500,000, and it's not certain the Legislature will go along with that expenditure.
-
Wal-Mart crasher may be in court Monday
Raymond Mager Jr., 47, of Minnesota Lake was involved in a bizarre incident that started with a hit-and-run accident near Mankato at 6:20 a.m. Thursday and ended inside the Wal-Mart store.
-
Rep. Morrow attempts to save for disaster
Federal funding comes quickly after a disaster, but damage under a certain level must wait for the Legislature
- Today's Services (3/20/10)
- Weird News: Least competent criminals
-
In praise of heroes — real ones
VFW member Tim Adams' heroes are the real deals.
- More Local News Headlines
-
