Chaffetz Reacts to DOJ Announcement on Stingray Policy

WASHINGTON—House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) released the following statement today after the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced new guidance for the use of cell-site stimulators, commonly referred to as “Stingrays”:

“I’m encouraged by DOJ’s announcement of increased transparency policies surrounding the use of cell-site stimulator technology. I am also encouraged that the policy establishes a probable cause search warrant as the general legal standard that must be met for the use of these devices. As I’ve long stated, establishing a high uniform standard helps protect personal privacy and discourages abuse and mishandling of these powerful devices. I remain concerned however with the continued secrecy surrounding the general use of geolocation technology. DOJ should continue to produce information – including the Jones memos – to help Congress and the public understand how the federal government tracks people.”

Background:

Earlier this year Chairman Chaffetz and Ranking Member Elijah Cummings sent a letter to then-Attorney General Eric Holder asking for clarity in the policies surrounding the use of cell-site stimulators.

Additionally, Chairman Chaffetz introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Geolocation Privacy and Surveillance (GPS) Act with Senator Ron Wyden, which would establish clear guidelines and rules for the use of geolocation technology.