MILWAUKEE, WI – Doorbell cameras and facial recognition technology have played a pivotal role in solving a recent Milwaukee homicide, according to prosecutors. The case has reignited discussions on the use of technology in police investigations.
The accused, 35-year-old Deon Howell, faces charges of first-degree intentional homicide. Authorities state that Howell was on probation at the time of the incident, which contributed to his swift arrest. The shooting occurred on July 20, in broad daylight, at the intersection of 55th and Custer, claiming the life of a 26-year-old man.
Prosecutors reveal that a doorbell camera captured the entire tragic event. A neighbor, who wished to remain anonymous due to safety concerns, reported hearing three gunshots, prompting her to call 911. The footage allegedly shows Howell in conversation with the victim, who was selling a dog. As the victim placed the puppy on the ground, Howell is said to have shot him three times before fleeing in a stolen vehicle.
Police tracked Howell using cell phone records, discovering he had purchased a flip phone at a local store. Surveillance footage from the store, combined with facial recognition software, helped authorities identify Howell.
Milwaukee’s Community Connect program, which integrates 965 residential cameras with direct police access, played a crucial role in this investigation. However, the use of such technology is not without controversy. In April, the ACLU addressed Milwaukee’s Common Council, advocating for a two-year moratorium on new surveillance technologies, particularly facial recognition. The organization cites concerns over mass surveillance and studies indicating potential biases in misidentifying people of color.
Despite the ongoing debate, cases like this highlight the evolving landscape of police work in the digital age. Attempts to speak with the family who owns the doorbell camera were unsuccessful, as they declined to comment or provide access to the footage.
As Howell awaits trial, the discussion around surveillance technology’s role in law enforcement continues to unfold, raising questions about privacy, security, and justice.